i 




PRESENT PASTORS OF THE REFORMED CHURCHES 
IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



A HISTORY 



THE LIBRARY 
OF C ONGR ESS 

WASHINGTON 



Reformed Churches 



IN CHESTER COUNTY 



COMPILED AND^ECvfTED BY 

Jf^LEWIS FLUCK 

Pastor of St. Matthew's and St. Paul's Reformed Churches 
Anselma. Pa. 




uOV 25 1892 




NORRISTOWN, PA. 

HERALD PRINTING AND BINDING ROOMS 
1892 




Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1892, by 

J. LEWIS FLUCK, 
In the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washingt 



:on. 



to the members of 
The Reformed Churches in Chester County 

AND 

To the Friends Who Have so Kindly Aided 
in its Preparation, 

this work is humbly dedicated. 



PREFACE. 



The first efforts in preparing a history of the Re- 
formed Churches in Chester County date back to 1879. 
At this time J. Smith Futhey and Gilbert Cope were 
collecting data for their general history of Chester 
county, published in 1881. The sketches in this book 
contained but meagre outlines of the beginnings, rise 
and progress of these churches, still, they were gen- 
erally read with a great deal of interest and satisfaction. 

Among those directly interested, either by past or 
present connection with the churches, there seemed to 
be a desire for sketches going more into detail. Ac- 
cordingly, in 1889, Captain A. Fetters, of Edgefield, 
commenced to write a series of historical sketches 
based upon such of the old records as were accessi- 
ble. These were published in "Our Banner," begin- 



vi 



PREFACE. 



ning with January, 1889, and apparently read with 
increased interest. 

Believing that their publication in a permanent form 
would be a means of preserving the old records, and, 
therefore, a service to the historical interests of the 
church, the present work was undertaken in the spring 
of 1 89 1. 

In preparing this work for the press, we have again 
gone over the whole field. The material was largely 
taken from old records, though we have not hesitated 
to take it from other sources where they seemed reli- 
able. In some sketches there are periods not very 
fully elaborated for want of material. We preferred to 
leave the gap open rather than fill it with matter of 
doubtful accuracy. We have aimed at accuracy first, 
and completeness as far as it was possible. 

We gladly acknowledge our indebtedness to Rev. 
Henry Hilbish, pastor of Brownback's; Rev. W. H. 
Stubblebine, of Shenkel's ; Rev. J. A. Mertz, of St. Vin- 
cent; Rev. Calvin Derr, of Spring City; Rev. I. Calvin 
Fisher, of East Vincent and Pikeland; and Rev. F. C. 
Yost, of Phcenixville, for their valuable aid in collect- 
ing and arranging the historical data of the churches 
with which they stand related. With the same plea- 
sure we acknowledge the valuable help received from 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE. 



Introduction 13 

Brownback's Reformed Church 16 

East Vincent Reformed Church 32 

St. Peter's Reformed Church (Pikeland) 44 

St. Peter's Reformed Church (Warwick) 51 

St. Matthew's Reformed Church 59 

St. Vincent Reformed Church 73 

St. Paul's Reformed Church 83 

Shenkel's Reformed Church 97 

St. John's Reformed Church, Phoenixville 107 

First Reformed Church, Spring City 113 

"Sunny side" 71 

"Fairview" 123 

Biographical sketches of pastors since 1850 125 

Appendix 141 



THE REFORMED CHURCHES 

IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



INTRODUCTION. 



Reverence for sacred places is as old as the religious 
instinct in man. The devout heart loves to cherish 
associations which cluster around the places of its com- 
munion with God. In the history of ancient nations, 
far back beyond where all other land-marks have 
ceased, there stand the temple and the altar, around 
which are gathered all we know of that period of their 
existence. Even among Pagan nations, that which 
was associated w r ith their religion, has been best pre- 
served in their traditions ; these glimmer farthest back 
into the morning twilight of their annals. " While their 
thrones, their capitols, their laws and their pageantry 
of state, have, to a great extent, vanished, so that their 
places are scarcely known, their temples, their altars, 
their gods, their religious doctrines, services and songs, 
have been faithfully preserved and transmitted, amid 
the ruinous changes which time has wrought, through 
many hoary centuries." So, likewise, among the 
Jewish nation we find this same ardor of devotion to 
sacred places, only increased in intensity. The places 
where God revealed himself in dreams and visions is 
the spot where the patriarchs built their altars, where 
the tribes built their tabernacles, and where the nation 
built its temple and its holy city. No gift was too 



14 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



costly, no labor too burdensome, no devotion too ex- 
acting, if thereby the Jew could adorn and make 
memorable, for ages to come, the place where he wor- 
shipped the God of his fathers. Travellers tell us that 
to this day the Jews of Palestine and pilgrims to the 
Holy City pay tribute to Mohammedans for permis- 
sion to approach and kiss the ruins of the ancient tem- 
ple ; and pressing their foreheads against its founda- 
tion walls, they wail in mournful tones : " If I forget 
thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cun- 
ning. If I do not remember thee, let my tongue 
cleave to the roof of my mouth ; if I prefer not Jeru- 
salem above my chief joy." 

Such is the strength and beauty of sacred attach- 
ment, and should not we respond to its appeals by 
showing an intelligent interest in that past, which 
brought to us the privileges of the present? Shall we 
forget our fathers and their history ? Shall we possess 
the inheritance which their pains have gathered — shall 
we worship in the temples which their hands have rear- 
ed — shall we pass by the silent and solemn graves in 
which their ashes rest, without inquiring into their his- 
tory, doing honor to their memory, and stirring up 
our hearts with gratitude towards God, that our lines 
have fallen into such pleasant places, and that we have 
been made the possessors of so goodly a heritage ? 

The history of these congregations is, moreover, the 
spiritual history of our ancestors in the faith. Here is 
where beloved parents and grand-parents, and in some 



INTRODUCTION. 



15 



instances, great-grand-parents came to worship God 
on the Sabbath day. What hallowed associations of 
affection, of friendship and of worship cluster around 
these holy places ! Other buildings have been erected, 
other surroundings created, one generation has laid 
another to rest in the adjoining graveyard ; but while 
these changes indicate the transient character of all 
things temporal and mortal, they draw us closer to the 
place where last scenes were witnessed, where last 
farewells were given, and where the heart still dwells 
in yearning love over the remains of its sacred dead. 

As to the part which these combined influences play 
in the redeeming actions of the world, this cannot, in 
the nature of things, be a matter of record. The 
church's most becoming attitude on this point is 
silence. Of the work she hath done and the good she 
hath wrought, others must speak through lives en- 
nobled, affections purified, character enriched and pur- 
pose elevated. Let every reader of these sketches be 
stirred up to greater activity in the Lord's work, so that 
from these temples of light shall go forth a steady 
current of sanctifying influence to heal and bless and 
raise a world afflicted with sin. 



BROWNBACK'S REFORMED CHURCH, 



EAST COVENTRY TOWNSHIP. 



As the history of this church dates back to a very 
early period, it would no doubt be interesting to the 
reader if we call his attention to the moral and politi- 
cal condition of the times in which this congregation 
had its birth. Brownback's Church, with many others 
in eastern Pennsylvania, was born in Revolutionary 
times — times that tried the souls of all who came to 
these western shores, to seek a home for themselves 
and their children. Many came to this country in 
those years of the Revolution. Some were outspoken 
advocates of American Independence, while others 
persisted in their allegiance to the King of Great 
Britain. Even the ministry of those days was divided 
on the political questions of the times. 

It was in the midst of this babel of thought that this 
church was beginning its religious history. 

The religious condition of the German people of 
Pennsylvania was deplorable. The wildest forms of 
fanaticism were rampant, while the great body of the 
people, disgusted by these extravagances, and desti- 
tute of proper means of religious instruction, was fast 
falling into a condition of hopeless irreligion and un- 
belief. 



brownback's church. 



17 



It is not surprising that under these circumstances 
some of the best of the Germans should have looked 
around for some means by which to bring about a 
better state of things, and thus promote a spirit of unity 
among Christians, and, at the same time, present a 
strong front to the attacks of the enemy. 

Dr. Dubbs, in his Historic Manual of the Reformed 
Church in the United States, says : " In December, 
1 741, Henry Antes, Count Zinzendorf and others, is- 
sued a call for a meeting of those who could give a reason 
for the faith that was in them, to be held in German- 
town, on New Years day. The plan of union elaborat- 
ed at these meetings was called ' The Congregation of 
God in the Spirit.' It was understood that every one 
might retain his denominational peculiarities, while at 
the same time he stood in connection with a higher 
unity. There was, it seems, no intention of destroying 
the Lutheran, Reformed and other churches as religi- 
ous denominations, but they were to be united by 
means of the confederation of those who had reached 
the highest grade of spiritual perception. The idea 
was not to establish a sect, but to some it appeared 
beautiful that there should be within the church a 
community of elect souls who would more and more 
withdraw themselves from worldly affairs to live a life 
like that of the angels in heaven." 

This movement seemed at first to prove successful, 
but as all wild and irregular movements are apt to 
carry men beyond the bounds of propriety, so in this 



I 8 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

case this compact now in an irregular way proceeded 
to ordain ministers for the Lutheran and Reformed 
churches. In this way a number of men were ordain- 
ed, among them the Rev. Jacob Lischey, who after- 
wards became the first pastor of this congregation. 

The community in which Brownback's church is 
located was first settled by Germans. Some came 
from the Palatinate, but, as the documents show, the 
greater part came from Switzerland. 

The care which they exercised in the selection of 
their first pastor shows that they were men of faith 
and piety. The church, they plainly saw, needed a 
minister who had the love of souls at heart ; a man 
well founded in Christian doctrine ; one who stood 
entirely aloof from the schismatic influences that pre- 
vailed to an alarming extent at this time in the various 
counties surrounding the city of Philadelphia ; hence 
they demanded of Rev. Lischey, that, before he could 
be elected as their pastor, he must give them a full 
and complete outline or declaration of his faith with 
regard to the cardinal doctrines of the Christian reli- 
gion. In accordance with the wishes of this people 
this declaration was carefully written and sent on the 
19th day of May, 1743. The document is too lengthy 
for translation, but we would here state that it is a 
piece of writing that indicates no small amount of 
scholarship, and at the same time shows a broad 
catholic spirit — a spirit of love and consecration to 
God and the Holy Gospel he was to preach. This 



brownback's church. 



19 



declaration seemed to find general approval on the 
part of this God-fearing and God-loving people, as is 
indicated by the following call sent to the Rev. Jacob 
Lischey, of which we here give a translation : 

" To the Rev. Jacob Lischey : 

" Inasmuch as you have, according to our wish and prayer, given 
us a written declaration as to the manner and spirit in which you 
would serve us as pastor, as well as of your faith in the cardinal doc- 
trines of the Gospel of Christ, we find that you are actuated from pure 
and proper motives. Especially, are we pleased to learn that it is your 
sincere purpose to preach none other to us but Jesus Christ as the only 
sure foundation of our holy religion ; and that in the clear and plain 
presentation of divine truth you seek the salvation of our souls and 
that of our children. With this declaration we are well satisfied, and 
we now invite you in the name of God, and of his son, Jesus Christ, 
' the Great Shepherd of souls,' to become our pastor, to preach to us 
the wholesome doctrines of Christ and his apostles, and to administer 
to us and to our families, for our blessing and comfort, the holy sacra- 
ments. 

" In witness whereof we hereby subscribe our names with a whole 
heart this 19th day of May, A. D., 1743 : Philip Breitenstein, 
Johannes Schroder, Johannes Frey, Nicholas Coerper, Christian Strohm, 
Velten Scheidecker, Conrad Reeffior, Johannes Paul, Henrich Freys, 
Friederich Mueller, Adam Stein, Lorentz Poffenboce, Michael Isnoy, 
Simon Schreck, Jacob Corl, Johannes Neydic, Casper Buechnen, 
Conrad Walther, Heinrich Muellen, Melchior Koch, Samuel Esch, 
Adam Schoett, Henrich Buehr, Gerhart Brumbach (Brownback), 
Heinrich Boehner, Johannes Corl, Johannes Hubel, Conrad Seibert, 
Friederich Funck, Jacob Freyman, Johannes Clauer, Albertis Ehren- 
wein, Wilhelm Adam, Rudolph Baeher." 

At this early period there was no church building. 
The worship was held in private houses for a number 
of years. Afterwards a school house was erected, and 
public worship held in it until the year 1750. 



20 



REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



This church was really organized in the city of 
Philadelphia, May 19, 1743, and a constitution formulat- 
ed which reads as follows, viz. : 

" There shall six elders be nominated by the minister, 
and elected by a majority of votes, who are of respect- 
able standing, and amongst the whole congregation, 
of a good report. 

Art. 1. Carefully to watch over the whole con- 
gregation, and to have strict oversight over each mem- 
ber in particular. 

Art. 2. They must make known without respect 
to person everything that is unbecoming, which they 
see and discover in the one or the other member. 
This they are to do in this manner : First, they are to 
make it known to the minister alone ; secondly, to the 
minister and other elders ; thirdly, to the whole con- 
gregation. If the first and second admonitions prove 
fruitless, they are to be excluded from the church, so 
that no impenitent sinner may be tolerated in the 
church, and that through them no weak member may 
be offended. 

Art. 3. They must see that there be good order 
and management, and that sound and pure doctrine 
be maintained. Wherefore, they shall, in the fourth 
place, frequently consult with the minister particularly 
when anything occurs in the congregation, meet with 
him to consider impending subjects in order to seek 
and to promote the welfare of the congregation. 

Art. 5. The elders and the ministers shall hold 
consistorial meetings among themselves every time be- 
fore the administration of the Lord's Supper, in which 
they must bear testimony, according to their con- 
science and their knowledge, of each member; when 
each one according to the best judgment of the min- 



brownback's church. 



21 



ister and his elders may be admitted or rejected, inas- 
much as the consistory has power not only to keep 
from the Lord's table all sinners who give offense to 
the congregation, but also to excommunicate them 
from the church until they show amendment of life. 
It is therefore necessary that all who intend to 
commune will give in their names, after the sermon, 
one Sabbath before the administering of the Lord's 
Supper, that there may be time to consult in regard 
to the case of each member, inasmuch as by reason of 
our discipline (not any are without exception), as has 
been the custom, none can be admitted to the Lord's 
table but those who have a just conception of the im- 
portant fundamentals of religion, as well as a true 
hunger and thirst after Christ ; that no openly known 
wicked and hardened sinners enter with the commu- 
nicants, and thus, through their impenitence, bring the 
wrath of God upon themselves, and upon the whole 
congregation. 

Wherefore in particular young people, as much as 
possible, should be taught and instructed ; therefore it 
shall be the duty of all parents and heads of families 
in our church to see that their children and those 
under their care be diligently trained up to this, and 
suffer no opportunity to be lost, by which they may 
grow in knowledge and increase in the love of the 
Lord, and thus build on the most sure and holy 
foundation, to which the elders shall see and shall take 
lead in the congregation with a good example. For 
the preservation of the church, the things required in 
it, as bread and wine in the administering of the Lord's 
Supper, there shall every time, at the end of divine 
service, be a regular collection taken, when each mem- 
ber shall contribute voluntarily and according to cir- 
cumstances. 



22 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



Further, the youngest of the elders shall take care 
of the money for one year, while another of the elders 
shall keep a regular account of what was contributed, 
so that settlement may be made semi-annually before 
the congregation. Nothing shall be paid out without 
the knowledge and consent of the whole congregation. 

Given in Philadelphia, May 19, A. D., 1743. 

This discipline was adopted and signed by the fol- 
lowing persons : Philip Breitenstein, Henry Steeger, 
John Shcenholtz, Nicholas Coerper, John Sholter, John 
Frey, Christian Strohm, Conrad Walter, Henry Mil- 
ler, Gerhart Brownback, Henry Bcener, Valentine 
Sheldecker, Conrad Ression, Elder Michael Thaney, 
Elder Simon Shunk, Jacob Carl, John Neidig, Casper 
Benner, Jacob Freyman, John Paul, Henry Fries, 
Malchia Koch, John Carl, Samuel Ash, John Zuber, 
John Clower, Conrad Seibert, Albert Ehrenwein, 
Adam Stein, Frederick Miller, Henry Boer, Adam 
Shott, Rudolph Boer, Wm. Adam, Frederick Funk, 
Lorentz Phaffenbach. 

The Rev. Jacob Lischey commenced his labors 
soon after he received his call from this people. Pre- 
cisely how long he ministered to this congregation 
cannot be told, as there are no records at hand, but it 
is presumed that he ministered to the people in word 
and doctrine for the space of four years. From here 
he moved to York county, Pa., and became pastor 
among the early Germans who had settled in that 
county. After having labored here for a number of 
years it seems he espoused the doctrine of Emanuel 



brownback's church. 



Swedenborg, and was finally deposed from the minis- 
try by the Coetus with which he had united in 1748- 

He died in Codorus township, York county, Pa., in 
1 78 1 , and is buried near the Reformed Church that is 
still known by the name of" Lischey's church." 

The next pastor was the Rev. Christopher Munz 
(Mancius). There is no record of his labors, nor of 
the time of his death. Dr. Dubbs, in his Necrology, 
says, that "in 1757 Coetus made a gift to his widow, 
otherwise unknown." 

The congregation, having largely increased in num- 
bers, resolved in the year 1749 to erect a church. 
The land for church and graveyard was donated by 
Gerhart Brownback, who settled about the year 1725 
in this immediate neighborhood. He became the par- 
ent of a numerous offspring, many of whom are still 
living, and are taking an active part in church work, as 
well as educational matters. It is from this early date 
that this church became known as " Brownback's Re- 
formed Church, of East Coventry township." 

From a history written by Frederick Sheeder in 
1846 we find the following: "The first log church 
here was build about 1750." He says that he was in 
it in the winter of 1793 and 1794. It was of logs, one 
and a-half story with gallery, broken roof, two four- 
light windows at each gable end, and two of the same 
size in the roof at each side, to light the gallery and 
pulpit. The lower story had twelve-light windows. 

To this church, after its completion, the Rev. John 



24 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

Philip Leydick was called. He was sent to America 
by the Synod of South Holland, and on his arrival 
began his ministry at Falkner Swamp, in Montgomery 
county, Pa., and at the same time supplied this church 
with the stated preaching of the Gospel. How long 
he continued pastor at Brownback's church we are not 
able to say. He died January 4, 1784, aged 68 years. 

In 1784, soon after the death of the former pastor, 
the Rev. Frederick Dallicker became pastor. He 
served this congregation, in connection with Faulkner 
Swamp, the same as his predecessor. There is no 
doubt but what this ministry continued until his death, 
which took place January 15, 1799, aged 60 years. 

In 1800 the old log church, which did service for 
about half a century, was taken down, and a stone 
building erected in its stead. At the same time the 
grave-yard was enlarged by a donation of a parcel of 
ground given to the congregation for that purpose by 
John Longacker. 

After this new church was built, and at the conse- 
cration, the Rev. Frederick L. Herman came to offici- 
ate. This ministry continued until 1 821. He died at 
Upper Hanover, Montgomery county, Pa., January 
30, 1848, aged 86 years. 

During the latter years of his ministry among this 
people, there were some who began to see the neces- 
sity of having English services, as a transition from 
German to English had fully set in. As the present 
pastor was born in Germany, and had never officiated 



brownback's church. 



25 



in the English language, he called his son, the Rev. 
Frederick Herman, Jr., who was pastor at New Hol- 
land, Lancaster county, to supply them with English 
services, which he faithfully did until the close of his 
father's ministry in 1821. From 1821 until 1840, Rev. 
John C. Guldin, son-in-law of Rev. F. L. Herman, was 
pastor, and in connection with this church he preached 
also at St. Matthew's, West Vincent, East Vincent, St. 
Peter's, Warwick, and Shenkle's churches. He was 
a forcible speaker, an earnest expounder of God's 
word. Often under his soul-searching sermons the 
people wept. This is the testimony of the few who 
are still living, and who were members of his flock. 
In those days, King Alcohol had full sway, the motto 
of many of the well-meaning people of those times 
was, " schnapps ist eine gabe Gottes, darum sollte es 
mit danksagung empfangen sein" (ardent spirits is a 
gift of God, therefore should be received with thanks- 
giving). 

Yet in those times when few dared to raise their 
voice against the evil of strong drink, Rev. Guldin 
took a fearless and bold stand against an evil that was 
destroying the happiness as well as the souls of thou- 
sands; and by his earnest sermons and lectures on 
temperance aroused the popular feeling, which finally 
resulted in the organization of a temperance society, 
the membership of which at one time numbered three 
hundred and fifty-two. The following is the pledge 
of the society, which we here insert at the request of 



26 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



a few of its friends, so that it may go down as a mat- 
ter of history for the use of incoming generations : 

At a large and respectable meeting of the inhabi- 
tants of Coventry township, Chester county, Pa., held 
in Brownback's Church, on Saturday evening, Febru- 
ary 28th, A. D., 1835, the Rev. J. C. Guldin, Rev. 
Henry Miller, Dr. Robert May and J. Evans, deliver- 
ed addresses on the subject of temperance. Afterwards 
the meeting proceeded to consider and adopt the 
following preamble and resolutions, viz. : 

Whereas, the use of ardent spirits as a drink is an evil extensively 
ruinous to the human race, destroying the peace and happiness of many 
families, spreading misery and desolation throughout the land, costing a 
vast amount of money, increasing public expense, as well as producing 
a great amount of poverty — 

Therefore, Resolved, That we form ourselves into a society for the 
purpose of promoting temperance, and that we adopt a constitution as 
the basis of our future operations. 

PLEDGE. 

We whose names are hereunto subscribed, believing that the drink- 
ing of ardent Spirits for persons in health is not only unnecessary, but in- 
jurious, Do, therefore, hereby pledge ourselves to abstain entirely from 
taking inwardly any kind of intoxicating drinks, except in extreme 
cases when it may be found really necessary ; and that we will not pro- 
cure the article to be used in any other way by our families, nor by per- 
sons in our employ ; that we will not traffic in the article, but that we 
will in all suitable ways discourage the use of it in the community. 

A few of the signers and workers in the cause are 
still living. Their names are as follows : Daniel Benner, 
Henry Prizer, Peter Brower, Joseph Francis, Daniel 
Hoffman, Albert Simpson, Ameriah Scheeleigh, 



brownback's church. 



27 



Abigail Scheeleigh, Elizabeth Scheeleigh, Eliza De- 
frane, and Sophia B. Buckwalter. 

Rev. Guldin lived in a parsonage bought for that 
purpose by the congregation. It is located only a short 
distance east of the church and is now the property of 
Hiram Detwiler. His ministry continued from 1821 
until 1840, and from all indications was a fruitful one ; 
" though dead, yet still he speaketh." He died in 
New York City, February 18, 1863, aged about 63 
years. 

From 1840 to 1855 several persons served as pas- 
tors — Revs. Honger, Andrew Young, J. S. Foulke, L. 
D. Leberman and David Heffelfinger. Rev. L. D. 
Leberman is still living, and is located in Philadelphia. 
Rev. Heffelfinger was pastor of this charge from 1848 
to 1855. He died at Fayettville, Pa., July 23, i860, 
aged about 44 years. 

Between the ministry of the Rev. J. C. Guldin and 
that of Rev. Honger, the third church was built, being 
about the year 1850. A great many of those still 
living remember this church. It was built according 
to the style of architecture common in Eastern and 
Central Pennsylvania. This church stood until 1879, 
when it was replaced by the present pleasing and 
commodious structure. 

In 1855 the Rev. William Sorber was called to the 
pastorate composed of Brownback's, Shenkle's, and 
St. Peter's churches. His ministry dates from June 
22, 1855. This ministry seems to have been more 



28 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



fruitful than any of the preceding. The records of the 
church show that there was a gradual growth from 
year to year throughout his entire ministry, which 
extended over a period of twenty-three years. All 
those living bear testimony to his faithfulness in and 
out of the pulpit, as well as the general care he mani- 
fested in developing the spiritual progress of his peo- 
ple. " Many shall rise and call him blessed in the 
resurrection of the just." Rev. Sorber closed his fruit- 
ful ministry December 7, 1878, and lies buried in the 
beautiful cemetery adjoining Brownback's church. 

The Rev. George S. Sorber, son of the preceding, 
having now completed his collegiate and theological 
course at Ursinus College, was called immediately 
after the death of his father. His ministry began in 
1879 and continued until January, 1886, when he re- 
signed in order to accept a call from Watsontown, 
where he is at this date, a beloved and acceptable 
pastor. 

The above ministry was a successful one in many 
respects, not only in gathering in new members and 
confirming them in the true faith through the earnest 
and faithful preaching of God's word, but under 
this ministry was also planned and erected the beauti- 
ful church which is shown by the engraving. The 
present edifice was erected in 1879; tne corner-stone 
was laid on the 29th day of July of that year. The 
following ministers took part in the services : Revs. H. 
W. Super, D. D., L. D. Stambaugh and G. S. Sorber, 



brownback's church. 



29 



of the Reformed Church; Revs. J. F. Hartman, W. 
Weaver and H. Cook, of the Lutheran Church; G. 
\Y. Lybrand of the M. E. Church, and Rev. Barrows 
of the Baptist Church. 

When the question of church building was proposed, 
it seems the people were of two different opinions. 
Some were for remodeling the old building, while- 
others were strongly in favor of a new building more 
in harmony with the times. In order to test the mat- 
ter, two subscriptions were circulated, one for remodel- 
ing the old building, the other for an entire new 
church. When these subscriptions were compared, it 
was found that by far the larger amount stood in favor 
of a new church. To this all finally agreed. 

Those who gave liberally tow 7 ard this new enter- 
prise, and who took an active part in collecting sub- 
scriptions, were: Jesse Brownback, Lewis Brownback 
and wife, William Davis, Daniel Benner, W. R. Beans, 
J. F. Sheeder, David Wanger, Henry Miller, Irwin 
Brownback, H. M. Stauffer, Henry R. Kulp, Mahlon 
Kein, and many others of which we have no record at 
hand. 

The Rev. George S. Sorber, having closed his min- 
istry on January 31, 1886, the congregation called 
student J. W. Meminger, who had completed his 
course at Ursinus College, to become pastor. The 
call w r as accepted, and he entered on his duties about 
June 1, 1886. This pastorate continued only for one 
year, Rev. Meminger having received a call from St. 



30 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



Paul's Church, Lancaster, and being strongly urged to 
accept the same, he closed his ministry in Brownback's 
charge at the close of his first year. The people were 
very loath to part with their pastor, as they had only 
learned to love him and to appreciate his services. 

On June 3, 1888, Rev. A. D. Wolfinger was install- 
ed pastor. His ministry continued until May, 1890, 
when he accepted a call to Thornville, Ohio, and re- 
moved there shortly afterward. 

On the 19th of March, 1891, the present pastor, the 
Rev. H. Hilbish, was unanimously elected, and a call 
extended to him. The same was accepted, and he 
entered upon his duties on the 1st day of May follow- 
ing. This pastorate, so far as we can tell, has been 
pleasant, both on the part of the pastor, and that of 
the people. In the first nine months of this ministry 
twenty-nine persons were added to the membership. 

This congregation has always been active and 
enterprising in church work. The Sunday-school 
interest, the missionary interest, as well as the educa- 
tional interests of the church, have received a liberal 
share of support. 

The Sunday-school interest dates back many years. 
Having no old records before us, we are not able to 
give its rise and progress, but some of the older mem- 
bers remember that a Sunday-school was held over 
fifty years ago. The superintendents in later years 
were Peter Brower, Frederick Sheeder, Jr., A. B. 



brownback's church. 



31 



Stauffer, John H. Kulp, and Herman Prizer, who is 
serving at this time with great acceptance. 

In closing this historical sketch, we will call your 
attention to only one other item — that of the music of 
this congregation. The first organ was dedicated on 
Sunday evening, October 1, 1871; Eli M. Root of 
Shenkle's Church presided at the organ. On Nov- 
ember 5, 1 87 1, Mary Ada Stauffer was elected organ- 
ist, and filled that position for nine years. From 1880 
to 1885, Miss Laura Sorber and Miss Lizzie Shee- 
leigh presided at the organ. From that period to the 
present, Miss Bella Prizer has filled the place, and with 
general satisfaction. 

The official board in office at this time are the fol- 
lowing: Elders, Daniel Benner, David Wanger, John 
Detwiler, Mahlon Kein, Amos Heistand and William 
Carl. Deacons, John Miller, Irwin Brownback, A. B. 
Stauffer, Moses H. Grubb, William H. Wiand and 
Washington F. Shantz. 



EAST VINCENT REFORMED CHURCH. 



The earliest historic records extant concerning the 
East Vincent Reformed Church, style it the " Reform- 
ed Congregation of Vincent Township beyond the 
Schuylkill." Although the erection of the first church 
building dates back to but the year 1758, the congre- 
gation had, nevertheless, been organized as early as 
the year 1744, and worshipped conjointly with the 
Lutherans in Zion's church. This was continued until 
the membership of both congregations was so large 
that it became a potent necessity to separate. To this 
both congregations assented, and the Reformed people 
sold out their invested right to the Lutherans for the 
sum of twenty pounds. 

Notwithstanding the fact that the organization dates 
back but to the year 1744, there is a well-preserved 
baptismal record dating back as far as 1733. 

Among those whose baptisms are recorded up to 
the time of the erection of the first church building in 
1750 are the following: Barbara Schbnholz, Martin 
John Schonholz, Jacob Schonholz, Catharine Schon- 
holz, Elizabeth Schonholz, Anna Maria Schunck, Con- 
rad Schunck, Catharine Elizabeth Schunck, Elizabeth 
Wagner, Anna Maria Wagner, John Schneider, Cath- 



EAST VINCENT CHURCH. 



33 



arine Schneider, Jacob Schneider, John Schonholz, 
Anna Maria Hippie, Anna Margaret Schunck, Eliza- 
beth Stegers, Sebastian Wagner, Jr., Simon Schunck, 
John Wagner, Eva Elizabeth Helwig, John Hippel, 
Anna Maria Schneider, Jacob Seivert, Catharine Sei- 
vert, Henry Hippie, Henry Laubach, Isaac Schunck, 
Catharine Schneider, Maria Catharine Braun, Anna 
Catharine Steger, Anna Maria Iaeger, Jacob Hippie, 
Magdalena Hippie, Anna Maria Laubach, John Miil- 
ler, Barbara Benner. 

The first church building was erected during the 
fall of 1757 and during the winter of 1758. Very little 
is known of this building; no more than that it was 
located in the southeastern part of the old cemetery, 
and was built of logs in full harmony with the colo- 
nial style. This house of worship was divinely set 
apart to the worship of the Triune God on May 27, 
1758, by its first pastor, the Rev. John Philip Ley dick. 
The consistory of the congregation at this time con- 
sisted of Sebastian Wagner, Sr., Simon Schunck, John 
Schonholz, Thomas Schneider, Lorentz Hippie. 

This building remained from 1758 to 181 2. During 
this time there were 650 persons baptized and 290 
confirmed. The first marriage recorded in the annals 
of this congregation was solemnized on April 27, 1784 
— " George Hirsch, son of Philip Hirsch, of Vincent 
township, to Anna Maria Andre, daughter of Philip 
Andre, of Pikeland township." This marriage was 



34 



REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



solemnized by the Rev. Frederic Dallicker, *Rev. Ley- 
dick's successor. Rev. Dallicker was pastor from 1784 
to 1799. He was succeeded by Rev. Frederick Har- 
man, the latter being pastor until 1821. 

The first church was a witness of Revolutionary 
times. In common with Uwchlan Friends' Meeting-- 
House at Lionville, and Zion's Lutheran Church on 
the Ridge on Nutt's road, it was used as a hospital 
during the pestilence which broke out among Wash- 
ington's army, in camp at Valley Forge in the winter of 
1 777-78. It is stated by earlier writers that both Pike- 
land and East Vincent churches were visible from Val- 
ley Forge at that time. Gen. Washington, whose 
heart was with his men, frequently visited these hos- 
pitals, and while at the one on the Ridge road, his 
headquarters were at an old log house on the farm 
recently occupied by George Snyder, within sight of 
the church. Many of those quartered in the church 
died of this fever. Twenty-two are buried in ground 
then belonging to Henry Hippie, Sr., near East Vin- 
cent church. No name is carved to tell us who they 
were. We only know that they died for their country. 
In 1 83 1 the Military Volunteer Association of Chester 
County, enclosed the plot of ground where they were 
buried, and erected a monument to their memory. The 
monument is at the foot of the hill, and is a marble 



*Rev. N. Burnt is said to have supplied the congregation with 
preaching from 1783 to the time that Rev. Dallicker assumed the 
pastorate. 



EAST VINCENT CHURCH. 



35 



pyramid about eight feet high. It bears the following 
inscriptions : 

On the southwest side: 

" Virtue, Liberty, and Independence." 

On the southeast side: 

" Within these walls surrounded, they 
Can yet be thought to claim a tear ; 
Oh, smite thy gentle breast, and say, 
< The friends of freedom slumber here.' 

" We here their humble graves adorn, — 
We, too, may fall and ask a tear, — 
That proves the evening shall be clear." 

On the northwest side: 

" Their names, though lost in earth below, 
And hence are not recorded here, 
Are known where lasting pleasures flow, 
Beyond the reach of death and fear. 

" Their feet have trod misfortune's sands, 
Their lives by hardships worn down ; 
They're gone, we trust, to brighter lands, 
To brighter sunshine of their own." 

On the northeast side: 

" Sacred to the Memory of Twenty-two Revolutionary Soldiers, 
who in the Fall of 1777, when the American Army had encamped at 
the Valley Forge, were lodged in the German Reformed Church (in 
sight), then occupied as a hospital; who there, distant from their 
homes, uncomforted by friends and kind relatives, deceased in the 
Spring of 1778, of a fever then prevailing in the camp ; who were in- 
terred in this ground and where they slumbered in their peaceful but 
neglected tomb [except that Mr. Henry Hippie, Sr., preserved the 
ground,] until the Union Battalion of Volunteers of Chester County, 
aided by the generous and patriotic people of this vicinity, resolved to 



36 



REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



have them enclosed and a monument placed over them ; the foundation 
of which accordingly was laid on the 19th of November, 1831, upon 
which occasion regular military ceremonies were observed, and a full 
oration delivered, to perpetuate the profound regard due the individuals 
who paid the forfeit of their precious lives for our sacred rights, and for 
privileges which they were never permitted to enjoy, and to contribute 
to generations unborn the memory of the precious price of the Liberty 
& Independence of our happy Union. They have raised this Monu- 
ment on the 25th of October, 1833, and which they also dedicate to 
the memory of a number of other Revolutionary Soldiers who, the same 
time and same manner, deceased in the Lutheran Church (then used 
as an hospital and are buried near it and in other places of this 
vicinity)." 

It was during the pastorate of Rev. Herman that 
the second church building was erected. In 181 2 the 
congregation met in their school-house to devise plans 
to erect a new church edifice. John Laubach, Casper 
Schneider and Henry Hippie were appointed a com- 
mittee to see to the erection of the proposed new 
church edifice. This building was forty-five feet long 
and thirty-five feet wide, built of red, yellow and white 
free-stone. There was no basement in the building, 
consequently the ceiling was very high. There were 
three doors to enter the building — one at each gable 
end and one on the south side. Upon entering the 
building, four blocks of pews became noticeable, one 
block in each corner. These were raised about three 
inches from the floor. The backs of the pews were 
straight and anything but comfortable. On the top 
of each pew was fastened a board, inclining at an angle 
of about thirty degrees; this served as a hymnal 
receptacle. 



EAST VINCENT CHURCH. 



37 



These blocks of pews were so arranged as to leave 
a large vacant space ; in the centre of this space, im- 
mediately in front of the pulpit, stood a large box 
table, four feet square and three feet high. This was 
commonly termed the altar. The pulpit was in the 
shape of our modern goblet. Immediately above the 
pulpit was a projection or roof; this was known as the 
sounding board. The pulpit was only sufficiently 
large enough for one to occupy it at a time. Thirteen 
steps led from the chancel up into the pulpit. At the 
end of the pulpit steps there was a pew with a little 
door attached to it at each end; this was known as 
the "elder's pew." Immediately under the pulpit 
there was another pew ; this was occupied by the dea- 
cons. The deacons, in gathering the alms, had a 
large black rod with a black velvet purse attached, and 
a small bell suspended from the purse; in those days 
this rather odd combination was known as a " Klingle- 
sock." The church had a gallery on three sides, and 
immediately on the gallery in front of the pulpit stood 
a large pipe organ. It is authoritatively stated that 
no stove was found in this church building until the 
year 1834. In this year, the congregation purchased 
two wood stoves of large dimensions. It is said that 
this building was then regarded as the most beautiful 
edifice in this section of country. 

Three years after the laying of the corner-stone, a 
most villainous and sacrilegious act was committed. 



38 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



The corner-stone containing most valuable documents 
was broken and robbed of its contents. 

In the year 1821, Rev. John C. Guldin, a young 
man but twenty-two years old, was called to succeed 
the Rev. Frederic Herman. Rev. Mr. Guldin was a 
firm supporter of what was then known as the " New 
Measure System." About the year 1828, there was a 
division in the congregation on doctrinal points, all of 
which were the logical outcome of this " New Measure 
System." This breach widened as the years passed 
by until the year 1848, when the " Anti-New Measure " 
party withdrew, and organized a new 7 congregation 
and subsequently built St. Vincent Reformed Church. 
Pastor Guldin continued in this field until 1840, when 
he withdrew and accepted a call to the Grindstone 
Hill charge in Franklin county, Pa. He was succeed- 
ed by Rev. Jacob W. Hangen, who served the con- 
gregation for about one year. He was succeeded by 
Rev. Andrew S. Young, who was pastor from 1 843 to 
1845. On account of ill health he was compelled to 
resign the pastorate. Rev. John R. Kooken succeed- 
ed him, who was pastor until 1846. 

In October, 1847, Rev. Alfred B. Shenkle, who was 
practically raised and bred in this congregation, be- 
came the pastor. The congregation, during Mr. 
Shenkle's pastorate, made remarkable progress both 
numerically and spiritually. During the year i860 
the building was enlarged and remodeled. Fifteen 
feet were added to the north end of the present struct- 



EAST VINCENT CHURCH. 



39 



ure, thus making its total length sixty feet. A base- 
ment was put in the church, and otherwise beautified. 
On Christmas Day, i860, the church was rededicated 
in the presence of a large concourse of people. The 
congregation was served by pastor Shenkle until Oc- 
tober 4, 1868, thus making his pastorate among these 
people twenty-one years and six months. 

During the winter of 1869, Rev. Maxwell S. Row- 
land was called to the vacant pastorate. His pastor- 
ate was eminently successful. He remained pastor 
until February 14, 1881. He was succeeded by the 
Rev. D. W. Ebbert. Mr. Ebbert began his labors 
here the first Sabbath in May of the same year. 

By this time it became necessary to repair the 
church edifice, and thus, during the summer and fall 
of 1882, the church was frescoed and repainted inside; 
also new pulpit furniture was procured and placed 
instead of the old, a new organ was purchased, and 
the building otherwise beautified. The church was re- 
opened with appropriate services, Rev. D. Ernest Klopp, 
D. D., preaching the re-opening sermon. 

During the year 1882 strenuous efforts were made 
to establish a Reformed church in Spring City. This 
was finally accomplished. A large number of the 
East Vincent members living in Spring City, or at 
least close by, withdrew their membership and assist- 
ed in organizing what is now the First Reformed 
Church of Spring City. This was a considerable loss 
to the mother church. About the same time a num- 



40 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



ber connected with St. John's Reformed Church, 
Phcenixville, Pa., thus making the loss still more per- 
ceptible. 

The First Reformed Church, Spring City, and East 
Vincent were constituted a charge, and Rev. Mr. 
Ebbert remained pastor until 1887. He was succeed- 
ed by the Rev. Leighton G. Kremer, who remained 
pastor up to the time of his death, August 25, 1890. 
After Mr. Kremer's death, the First Reformed Church 
of Spring City was constituted a charge, and East 
Vincent Reformed Church united with the Pikeland 
Reformed Church. This charge called as their pastor 
the licentiate I. Calvin Fisher, who was ordained and 
installed as pastor on June 11, 1 891 , by a committee 
of Philadelphia Classis, consisting of Revs. John H. 
Sechler, F. C. Yost and C. B. Alspach. 

In the Fall of 1891 the basement of the church 
was thoroughly renovated. The one room was divid- 
ed into a main room, Bible class room and infant room, 
the two latter being separated from the main room by 
a sliding glass partition. All the old pews have been 
removed and comfortable chairs put in their place. 
The walls have been wainscoted three feet high, and 
otherwise beautified, so that the basement now pre- 
sents a most gratifying appearance. The re-opening 
services of the basement took place the first Sabbath 
in December, 1891, Rev. J. Lewis Fluck preaching 
the sermon. This congregation now numbers 106 
members. 



EAST VINCENT CHURCH. 



41 



At the first communion held in the new edifice, in 
1758, John Laubach presented to the congregation, 
a full communion service made out of Mexican silver 
dollars. That the metal was good is attested by the 
fact that it is still used, and in excellent condition. 

In the old graveyard attached to the church are 
buried nearly all the early members of the congre- 
gation. Of the many hundreds that are interred in 
said cemetery, Benjamin Boyn is said to be the first. 
Other early burials, as indicated on the tombstones, 
are the following : Peter Defralin lived from 1733 to 
1787; Thomas Snider, 17 16 to 1782; George Yeager, 
1 7 1 8 to 1790; John Olwine, 1734 to 1 791 ; Peter 
Shunk (uncle of Governor), 1756 to 18 14; Henry 
Hippie, 1759 to 1843; John Hoffman, 1745 to 18 14; 
Michael Saiffer, 1724 to 1802; John Labach, 1728 
to 1808. 

The following is a list of the pastors : 



Rev. John Phillip Leidick 17 — to 1783. 

Rev. N. Bumb 1783 to 1784. 

Rev. Fred. Dalliker . . . 1784 to 1799. 

Rev. Fred. Herman 1799 to 1 821. 

Rev. John C. Guldin 1821 to 1840. 

Rev. Jacob W. Hangen 1840 to 1842. 

Rev. Andrew S. Young 1842 to 1844. 

Rev. John R. Kooken 1845 to 1846. 

Rev. Andrew Hoffman 1846 to 1847. 

Rev. Alfred B. Shenkle 1847 to 1868. 

Rev. Maxwell S. Rowland 1869 to 1 88 1. 

Rev. David W. Ebbert 1 881 to 1887. 

Rev. Leighton G. Kremer 1887 to 1890. 

Rev. I. Calvin Fisher 1891 to . 



42 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



GENERAL OUTLOOK. 

That the East Vincent congregation in 1848 was 
divided, thus giving rise to another organization so 
near as St. Vincent, is a misfortune which must ever 
be regretted. These two congregations have a com- 
bined membership of about 225, and while both of 
them are, no doubt, doing an excellent work, yet with 
their united spiritual, moral and financial energies, 
what a power the " Reformed Church on the Hill" 
might become. Perhaps this generation, or the child- 
ren of this generation, may live to behold such a 
glorious consummation. May we not hope for it? 

In the present state of affairs, the work at East 
Vincent is being aggressively carried forward by the 
pastor and people. The future outlook is bright and 
promising. Under the present pastorate of about ten 
months, twenty have been added to the church, and 
the outlook for the coming year is very encouraging. 

The Sunday School is not very large. Owing to the 
organization in Spring City and Phcenixville a large 
number of the young people have moved thither and 
connected with said churches. There is, however, an 
enrollment of about no. The school is well graded, 
being divided into three departments — Infant, Main, 
Bible Class. Father Alexander Hoffman served as 
Superintendent of this school for many years, but 
owing to age declined to be re-elected. The pastor 
has been elected to succeed him and has been serving 
as such for about eight months. 



EAST VINCENT CHURCH. 



43 



The financial condition of the congregation is healthy 
There is no encumbrance resting on the church, but 
on the other hand there is a surplus fund of $1200. 
The contributions for benevolence have increased very 
materially for the past few years. 

The congregation is well organized for active work, 
sustaining a Sunday School Association, Y. P. S. C. 
E., Ladies' Aid Society and Ladies' Missionary 
Society. Woman's work in the congregation is well 
organized and aggressively carried forward. 

The present consistory is composed of the pastor, I. 
Calvin Fisher ; elders, Reuben Beerbower, Alexander 
Hoffman, Jacob High, David R. Buckwalter, Christian 
Snyder and Christian W. Brown ; deacons, Hiram 
Souders, William Z. Styer, John Wagoner and Joseph 
M. Bertolette. 



ST. PETER'S (PIKELAND) REFORMED 
CHURCH. 



The history of St. Peter's (Pikeland) Reformed 
Church dates back to the latter part of the eighteenth 
century, and more particularly to the early part of the 
present century. During these early years, it was 
frequently the custom for the " newcomers " of various 
denominations to gather in private dwellings for wor- 
ship. It is to these meetings that the present St. 
Peter's Reformed congregation owes its origin. 

The Lutheran denomination planted itself in the 
Pikeland townships as early as the year 1770, effecting 
an organization during that same year. During the 
Spring and Summer of 1772, a log church was erected 
on the present site. The dedication sermon was 
preached by the Rev. Henry Melchior Muhlenburg. 
This house of worship served for a period of about 
forty years, finally becoming too dilapidated, so that 
it was deemed very necessary to erect a new building. 
At this time overtures were made by the German 
Reformed people living in the community to the 
Lutherans. 

The following articles of agreement were made and 
signed August 6, 181 1 : 



ST. PETERS, PIKELAND. 



45 



Between the Rev. Frederick Jasinski, present minister of the 
German Lutheran Church called St. Peter's, in the township of Pike- 
land ; John Emery, Benjamin Sheneman, Michael Slonaker, Frederick 
Strough, George Hartman and Adam Moses, elders ; George Deery, 
Jr., Jacob Painter and John King, deacons ; being the present members 
of the corporation of said church, of the one part, and Conrad Keeley, 
trustee ; George Snyder, Henry Laubach and John Boyer, elders ; 
John Snyder and Henry Serger, deacons ; being the officers of the Re- 
formed German or Presbyterian congregation, worshipping in said 
church by permission of the congregation, of the other part. In consid- 
eration of the payment of ^5 unto the parties of the first part, they bar- 
gained and sold unto the parties of the second one undivided moiety or 
half part of the lot on which St. Peter's is erected, and of the school- 
house and burying-ground thereon, and to have use of the church every 
other Sunday for public worship ; and the parties of the second part to 
be at one-half the expense of the church which the parties of the first 
part are now erecting on said lot and at one-half of all expenses." 

Exactly one week after these articles of agreement 
had been formed, the corner-stone of the new edifice 
was laid. Besides the pastor-loci, the Rev. Frederick 
Jasinski, the following clergymen were present; Rev. 
Charles G. Harman, Kutztown, Berks county, Pa., and 
Rev. Mr. Latta, of the Reformed church; Rev. Jacob 
Miller, of Falconer Swamp, near Boyertown, Pa., and 
Rev. John P. Hecht, Pottstown, of the Lutheran 
church. The building committee on the Reformed 
side consisted of Henry Laubach and George Snyder. 

The building was put up of native stone and plas- 
tered outside, and at the time was regarded as a model 
church. The building upon its completion cost 
$2836.453^. The same was consecrated to the ser- 
vice of the Triune God under the name of St. Peter's, 



46 



REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



on the 4th day of October, 1812. This building, well- 
constructed as it was, and eminently satisfactory, had 
but a brief stay. It was occupied alternately each 
Sabbath by the Lutheran and Reformed congregations 
for but the brief period of twenty-two years. On Janu- 
uary 20, 1835, the building was destroyed by fire, 
together with its magnificent pipe organ and all its 
valuable contents. The fire is said to have been of an 
incendiary origin. What the fiend's object was is not 
known to this day, but that the deed was a most 
diabolical one no one will dispute. 

Though this building was laid in ashes, the congre- 
gation was not in the least degree dismayed, but went 
courageously forward and began to rebuild, so that on 
April 24, 1835, the corner-stone was laid. The 
clergymen present on this festive occasion were the 
Rev. Jesse B. Knipe (then pastor), of the Reformed 
church; Rev. Jacob Wampole, Rev. Conrad Miller 
and Rev. J. W. Richards, of the Lutheran church; 
Rev. Levi Bull of the Episcopalian church. The 
greater part of a year was spent in the erection of the 
present edifice. The dedicatory services took place 
on April 15, 1836. The services were extended over 
two days, conducted by different clergymen from a 
distance. The two pastors were the same as at the 
laying of the corner-stone. Visiting clergymen con- 
sisted of the Rev. J. Metart, Rev. Frederick Ruthrauff 
(who later on became pastor of the congregation) and 
C. F. Weddew, of the Lutheran church; Rev. Levi 



ST. PETER S, PIKELAND. 



47 



Bull and Rev. Mr. Mintzer, of the Episcopalian church. 

The building at the time of its completion was re- 
garded a model of neatness, and was prized very high- 
ly by both congregations. This building has a gallery 
on three sides, and thus is capable of seating well nigh 
500 people. 

From this time on both Reformed and Lutheran 
congregations continued to worship peacefully and 
unmolested in their new home. During this period 
the congregation, under the pastoral care of the Rev. 
Jesse B. Knipe, made rapid strides of progress. St. 
Peter's congregation owes no little to this sainted 
father; he worked faithfully for the interests of the 
church he loved so much. 

The Reformed and Lutherans continued to worship 
in the same building up to within a few years, when it 
was mutually agreed that each congregation was to 
have a separate house of worship. The building erect- 
ed in 1835 being owned by both parties, as well as its 
grounds, was to be disposed of by some means or other. 
Finally it was decided that the building should be sold 
at public sale. The trustees of the Reformed congre- 
gation, Messrs. Joseph W. Rapp, William Rapp and 
James Rees, being the highest bidders, were declared 
the purchasers. The amount paid was $2951. This 
transaction took place March 1, 1889. 

As soon as the Reformed congregation became the 
sole owners, steps were taken to remodel the church 
building. The exterior of the building was renewed 



48 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



and beautified. In the interior, however, the change 
is more perceptible. Instead of the old-fashioned pews 
will be found semi-circular pews, the high pulpit has 
been changed so as to be more modern, new carpets 
have been added, the wood-work painted, and the wall 
frescoed. A vestibule has also been added. All the 
improvements amounted to about $ 1 1 00. The commit- 
tee on remodelling consisted of Jacob B. StaufTer and 
Joseph W. Rapp. 

The rededication of this house of worship took 
place on Feb. 23, 1890. The sermon was preached 
by the late Rev. J. H. A. Bomberger, D. D., LL. D., 
President Ursinus College, Collegeville, Pa. Rev. 
Francis C. Yost was pastor at the time. 

So far as numbers are concerned Pikeland Reformed 
congregation at no time numbered much over a hun- 
dred. The church records show that the highest num- 
ber that communed at any time was only seventy 
(May 14, 1836). Those communing at that time were 
Isaac Smith, Mary Smith, John Labaugh, Alexander 
Marshel, John Olwine, Henry Rixstine, Rachel Rix- 
stine, George Smith, John Davis, Isaac Neiman, Re- 
becca David, Jacob Rixstine, John Rixtine, Samuel 
Rixstine, Mary Fetters, Elizabeth Shoffner, Elizabeth 
Snyder, Susan Rhoads, Catharine March, Margaret 
Slonaker, Catharine Rixstine, Margaret Labaugh, 
Catharine E. Glison, Elizabeth Huzzard, Sarah Wil- 
liams, Amelia Black, Sarah Wisner, Catharine King, 
Catharine Fetters, Catharine Miller, Mary Mauk, 



ST. PETER S, PIKELAND. 



49 



Catharine Mauk, Catharine Acker, Lea Acker, Cath- 
arine Anderson, Mary A. Watkins, Elizabeth Fetters, 
Mary Fetters, Eve Fisher, Eleanor Channel, Cathar- 
ine Harris, Mary Paul, Catharine Wells, Susan Devoe, 
Catharine Wentz, Eve Kenney, Rebecca March, Ann 
March, Catharine Snyder, Margaret Reese, Maria 
Frederick, Margaret Frock, Peter Frederick, Jacob 
Neiman, Rebecca Davis, Mary Todd, Maria Sloyer, 
John Acker, Barbara Saylor, John Acker, Jr., Henri- 
etta Fisher, Mr. Friday, David Paul, Samuel Williams, 
Mrs. Wager, Henry Huzzard, Susan Paul. 

In looking over the present membership roll, barely 
one-half dozen of the names here recorded have left 
any lineage of the present number. From all that has 
been previously stated we can readily glean that the 
membership at no time was large. Again bearing in 
mind that St. Paul's and St. Matthew's are offsprings 
of this mother congregation, the casual observer sees 
plainly that no large congregation can be in existence 
here at the present day. Besides this, within two hun- 
dred yards of the Reformed Church, there is found 
a General Council Lutheran Church and a General 
Synod Lutheran Church. Within two miles there is 
an M. E. Church. 

The same facts again will tell the story that the 
Sunday School is comparatively small. Though few 
in number, the membership is, however, made up of 
an active and energetic people. They sustain a Mis- 
sionary society, which, during the fiscal year iSgo-'gi, 
raised the sum of $60, besides raising the amount for 



50 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



Classical Apportionment and paying liberally towards 
the pastor's salary. 

The congregation has been kindly remembered at 
times by bequests from the following individuals : 
Henry Labaugh (1818) $100, Daniel Harp (1825) 
$50, Jacob Keely (1865) $500, Henry Keely (1874) 
$600, Samuel Acker (1880) $1500, Rev. Jesse B. 
Knipe (1885) $500, Henry Snyder (1887) $1000. 

Two thousand, three hundred dollars of the above 
was expended in purchasing the half interest, formerly 
held by the Lutherans, in the present church property. 
While two thousand remains invested for the use of the 
Reformed Church (St. Peter's), of West Pikeland. 

The outlook for the work in the future is encour- 
aging. The work is being energetically carried for- 
ward by pastor and people. The following are the 
members of the present Consistory : Pastor, I. Calvin 
Fisher ; Elders, Benjamin Rapp, Isaiah March, Jacob 
B. Stauffer, Isaac Stauffer and Joseph W. Rapp ; 
Deacons, Howard W. Davis and Alvah March. 

PASTORS. 

From the time of organization until 1830 the date of the pastorate is 
unknown. 

Rev. Frederick A. Herman 181 1 to 

Rev. Jacob W. Dechant to 

Rev. Casper Wach to 

Rev. Jesse B. Knipe 1830 to 1882 

Rev. S. P. Manger 1882 to 1888 

Rev. Jas. R. Lewis (Supply) .... Oct. 1888 to May 1889 

Rev. F. C. Yost 1889 to 1890 

Rev. I. Calvin Fisher 189 1 to 



ST. PETER'S REFORMED CHURCH. 

WARWICK TOWNSHIP. 



The readers of these historical sketches of the Re- 
formed churches of Chester county, perhaps may 
wonder why they are all located in its northeastern 
part, while the other protestant denominations are 
found throughout the county. 

When William Penn was seeking a spot where he 
with his followers could form a settlement free from 
persecution for their religious views, he had gone to 
Holland, but not finding much encouragement to set- 
tle there, he returned to England, when King Charles 
II. granted to him the province of Pennsylvania. 

Penn's liberal and just code of laws made for his 
own followers (the Quakers or Friends), attracted the 
attention of other Protestant sects of Europe, who, like 
Penn and his followers, suffered persecution for their 
conscience sake. 

Penn, while in Holland, made the acquaintance of 
one Benjohan Furly, of Rotterdam, a German, a man 
of learning and much wealth, and of such influence 
among the Germans as to induce numbers of them to 
settle in Pennsylvania. William Penn was much 
pleased that a man of his wealth, family and character 
should take an interest in his new province. This 



52 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



immigration of Friends, Huguenots and Germans 
greatly increased, so that about the year 1726, when 
Patrick Gordon was governor of the province, the leg- 
islative council appointed a committee to report on 
the matter, as the safety of the colony was feared to 
be in danger. The report of this committee was so 
favorable to the industrious habits, religious and moral 
ways of these immigrants, especially the Germans, 
that they were encouraged to settle in the province. 
It was about this time, 17 26-' 50, that the great tide of 
German immigration set in, and has made the popula- 
tion of Pennsylvania so largely German. Coming to 
Philadelphia, they, being a pastoral people, pushed 
out into the wilds of Bucks and Montgomery counties. 
Many of them, crossing the Schuylkill, settled in the 
Vincents, Pikelands, Coventrys and Nantmeals. 

The first settlers of the Vincents, Pikelands, etc., 
were English, as their names would indicate: as, 
Joseph Pike purchased a large tract of land of Penn, 
which is now Pikeland. Sir Matthias Vincent did the 
same, and leaves his name to posterity in the names of 
the two townships in Chester county. Coventry from 
Samuel Nutt, who came from Coventry in Warwick- 
shire, England. Nantmel (now Nantmeal) from 
Welsh settlers who came up the Brandywine from the 
valley. French creek was originally called Vincent 
river, its Indian name being Sankanac. The origin of 
the name French creek I have been unable to dis- 
cover. 



st. peter's, Warwick. 



53 



These early German immigrants were of the Luth- 
eran and Reformed churches of Holland. In many 
places they formed union congregations, and worship- 
ed in the same church buildings. This was the case 
at St. Peter's, Pikeland, St. Matthew's, St. Paul's, and 
at St. Peter's, Warwick. As has been narrated in the 
history of Brownback's church, that it was the first 
Reformed congregation organized in Chester county, 
those of that faith worshiped there ; but many of these 
early immigrants had followed up the valley of the 
French creek, and settled in and around what is now 
termed Knauertown, which takes its name from one of 
the first settlers. 

These early German immigrants had left their 
"Fatherland" on account of the persecutions they 
were subject to for breaking away from the Catholic 
church. They in their new settlement were quite 
distant from Brownback's where they had gone to 
worship for near a half-century, and in those early 
days the usual mode of traveling being on foot or on 
horse-back we suppose they resolved to build what 
is now termed St. Peter's Reformed Church, of War- 
wick. The tablet in the east wall of the building has 
on it this inscription : 

St. Peter's 

Temple. 
Built 1816. 
Re-built 1853. 

The books of record of this congregation from 18 16 
until 1836 are said to be lost, at least no one of the 



54 



REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



present membership knows of them. John Murphy, 
who is now in his eighty-fourth year, says that at the 
time of the re-building in 1853 he saw them — that 
there were two of them, similar to the one that is now 
used as a book of record. We trust that a searching 
inquiry will be started, and that they may yet be found. 
So the reader must cast a retrospective view over 
these twenty years of unrecorded events, and in imag- 
ination see the devotion, the sacredness, and the love 
these early settlers had for the faith they professed in 
Christ, to erect and to preserve a place of worship for 
themselves and for their children. 

From the records and from tradition, this congre- 
gation has been attached to the " Brownback charge," 
and whoever supplied it preached at stated periods at 
St. Peter's. We find in the present book of record 
that the Lutherans held services here. Rev. Frederick 
Ruthrauf records in his own hand that he commenced 
his services here in May, 1836, and for several years 
are recorded the names of those who communed at 
the Lutheran services. The last record of Lutheran 
communicants at St. Peter's appears to have been 
November 10, 1839. We do not find that the Luth- 
erans ever held any property rights, only that they 
were granted the privilege of holding service. 

The location of the church is on the south side of 
the Ridge road — in early times known as Nutt's road 
— in the eastern part of Warwick township, which 
derives its name from Warwick furnace, which took 



st. peter's, Warwick. 



55 



its name from Warwickshire, the native place of Sam- 
uel Nutt, one of the earliest settlers. 

The land was either donated or purchased of John 
Nice, and for many years it was known by the name 
of Nice's church. It is forty feet by thirty-two feet, 
built of stone, lighted by ten large gothic windows 
filled with rolled plate glass in nicely blended colors. 
The entrance is by one door-way in the east end, 
with an aisle from the door to the open space around 
the altar. The pews are in two blocks on either side 
of the aisle. There is a gallery across the east end of 
the building. The pulpit is in the west end opposite 
the door, is neatly furnished, and the chancel is car- 
peted. The building will seat two hundred and fifty 
persons. 

A person who was in the building before it was 
rebuilt in 1853, says, that "there were three doors — 
one opening towards the road, one opening into the 
grave-yard, and one where the door is now ; it had a 
gallery on three sides, and was higher in the story 
than at present. In rebuilding, the roof was lowered 
and the gallery on the sides removed." 

The congregation was never very large. In looking 
over the records of communicants, we count from 
twenty up to forty, the average being about thirty. 
In April, 1871, twenty-six persons joined in the com- 
munion. 

In going over the records, we have culled such 
events as we think will be of general interest to the 
reader. 



56 



REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



In 1871 the present iron fence which surrounds the 
church, was erected by general subscription, and cost 
$257-50. 

In July, 1873, Henry Swinehart donated an organ 
to St. Peter's congregation, which cost $170. 

In August, 1874, the following persons gave 
towards the support of Ursinus College, Collegeville, 



Pa., as follows: 

Davis Knauer $25. 

Christian Amole 25. 

Jonathan Knauer 25. 

Wm. Nice 10. 

Wm. Arnole 10. 

John S. Eyrich 10. 

Henry Amole 10. 

John Murphy 5. 

Samuel Lohr 5. 

John Roberts 5. 

Mary Swinehart 3. 

Harry Hummel . . . . I. 



In 1876 there were nine stalls of sheds erected by 
individual subscriptions, on land donated by John 
Murphy, Sr., which cost $160. 

About the year 1880, the church building was re- 
paired and repainted, the cost of which we find no 
record. 

In 1 89 1 a new organ was put in the place of the 
first one, and cost $100. 

At the present time, Rev. Henry Hilbish, who is 
the pastor of Brownback's, is pastor here; services 
are held only every two weeks, in the afternoons. 



st. peter's, Warwick. 



57 



A Sunday-school has always been held here, but only 
in the Summer; this year, however, they organized 
about New Year, and hope to continue it throughout 
the year. 

The cemetery connected with St. Peter's contains 
about one and a quarter acres of ground, inclosed with 
a substantial stone wall. In it rest the remains of 
many who, we have no doubt, helped erect this church 
building, and who, while in the flesh, delighted to 
worship in this sanctuary. We copy a few inscrip- 
tions from the tombstones, some of which indicate 
that it was a place of burial before the present building 
was erected. 

John Nice, son of George and Elizabeth Nice ; born February 20, 
1750; died October 28, 1826. 

Magdaline, wife of John Nice and daughter of Rev. Philip Leidig ; 
born October 14, 1750 ; died January 28, 1846. 

Gabriel Shuler; born June 25, 1747 ; died December 30, 1812. ' 

James Everhart ; born February 24, 1789 ; died December 26, 1863. 

Mary Magdaline Everhart; born June 9, 1797 ; died March 12, 
1869. 

John Knauer; born December 12, 1778; died July 28, 1845. 
Henry Hitheny ; born December 17, 1743; died December 17, 
1812. 

John Amole ; died of wounds received at battle of Antietam, No- 
vember 3, 1862, aged 22 years, 16 days. 

Daniel Murphy ; died at Camp hospital near Stafford Court House, 
Va., February 9, 1863, aged 26 years, I day. 

St. Peter's has been remembered with several lega- 
cies by those who, during their lives, loved the church, 
and now their good deeds do follow them : 



58 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



John Nice, one hundred dollars ; Miss Wal- 

leigh, one hundred dollars; Mary Swinehart, five 
hundred dollars. The interest of these bequests is to 
go to the support of the minister supplying St. Peter's. 

We found no constitution or articles of incorpora- 
tion, by which this congregation is governed. This 
should claim their early attention. 

In conclusion we would say that though the work 
of gathering these records and putting them in a more 
permanent form for preservation, has been imperfectly 
done, yet we trust it may lead to a more careful re- 
cording and preserving of the history of the Reformed 
churches everywhere, and especially in Chester county. 



ST. MATTHEW'S REFORMED CHURCH. 



WEST VINCENT. 



Already by the earliest settlers in this section of 
Pennsylvania, the church and the school-house were 
regarded as the beacon lights of a true civilization. 
It was not a mere accident that, in earlier years, they 
were nearly always found side by side, but it was a 
practice resting upon a most important truth as its 
foundation principle. These two institutions were 
looked upon as one in their aim and object. They 
were regarded as mutually co-operative in bringing 
about that enlightenment of mind and heart upon 
which the true prosperity and the highest welfare of 
any community is ever conditioned. There is no 
stronger proof of the school-house having fulfilled its 
true object, than the church standing near its side. 
Whatever else it may signify, to the learned and the 
devout, it is a beautiful piece of instructive symbolism. 
All true learning must lead up to God. There is a 
time in the life of every right thinking man when this 
truth will assume all the force and intensity of a con- 
viction. He sees evidences of a plan larger than he 
can grasp, he sees forces at work mighter than he can 
comprehend, and when he realizes how the ponderous 



6o REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



machinery of the universe moves on without a clash, 
without a jar, obedient, with unerring certainty, to the 
Master's will — lost in the vastness of its grandeur, he 
says to his reason, "tarry here (in the school-house) 
while I go yonder (into the temple) and worship." 

Thus our forefathers associated the one with the 
other. They saw that religion could not exist with- 
out education, and on the other hand that the highest 
type of education could not exist without religion. 
Education must lead up to religion, and religion must 
stimulate education. As in the case of nearly all our 
Reformed churches in Chester county, St. Matthew's 
had its origin in the school-house. 

The religious persuasion of the community seems 
to have been prevailingly Lutheran, German Reformed, 
Baptist, and a few Episcopalians. There was about 
this time also a general religious awakening, leading, 
in 1833, to the erection of Windsor Baptist and St. 
Andrew's Episcopalian churches. Nearly all of the 
Lutheran and German Reformed people had church 
relations either with St. Peter's, Pikeland, or with 
Brownback's Reformed Church, Coventry. But under 
the influence of this awakening they were led to seek 
conditions which would afford them larger religious 
privileges. Accordingly an effort was made by both 
denominations to secure the services of some one who 
should come among them at stated periods and min- 
ister to them in word and in doctrine. The Reform- 
ed people secured the services of Rev. Jesse B. Knipe, 



ST. MATTHEW S CHURCH. 



then quite a young man, who preached alternately in 
what were known as Dolby's and Hefflefinger's school- 
houses, the former in Uwchlan, the latter in West 
Vincent township. In 1833 two congregations were 
organized. Of the Lutheran congregation we have 
no records at hand. The following is the vestry 
elected by the Reformed congregation, Rev. Jesse B. 
Knipe being pastor: Henry Keely, George Keely, 
George Sloyer, Jacob Hoffman, John Shinier, Joseph 
Kulp and Jacob Kulp. 

The want of a more suitable place of worship in 
the community led these, our ancestors in the faith, 
to contemplate the erection of a house of worship to 
be dedicated especially to the service of God. For 
this purpose a plot of ground was purchased from 
Joshua Woodward, situated on the Conestoga pike in 
West Vincent township. Here the Reformed and 
Lutheran congregations jointly erected a substantial, 
and for that day a well-finished, church building, dur- 
ing the year 1833. The corner-stone was laid on May 
27. 1833, and on December 10 of the same year, the 
building was dedicated to the services of Almighty 
God. It was a stone building, thirty-five by forty-two 
feet, and two stories high, with gallery on three sides. 
Two doors in front served as places of entrance, and 
two aisles, running through the full length of the 
house, divided the pews into three rows. Against the 
inside of the wall, between the two doors of entrance, 
was the pulpit, and on either side of the doors was an 



62 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



ascent to the galleries. The pews, facing the pulpit, 
also faced the doors of entrance. The cost of this 
building was nearly $1700. 

For forty-seven years this church was a house of 
worship, a place of prayer, a land-mark of the com- 
munity. Nearly all who crossed its threshold in these 
earlier years have passed away. Many of them were 
laid to rest in the cemetery adjoining the church, 
where they are awaiting the dawn of resurrection's 
morn. 

In the early part of 1834, the Rev. Jesse B. Knipe 
was succeeded by Rev. John C. Guldin as pastor. 
The organization under Rev. Knipe, it seems, had 
made no provision for a constitution by which it was 
to be governed. Accordingly, on March 3, 1884, the 
vestry of the congregation met in the church to adopt 
a Preamble, Rules, Resolutions, etc. We here give a 
copy of the Preamble, as showing their true concep- 
tion of the grounds upon which rested the necessity of 
church government. It reads thus: 

" Whereas, We have among ourselves formed a German Reformed 
congregation, worshiping in St. Matthew" s church in the township of 
West Vincent, county of Chester and state of Pennsylvania, and 

Whereas, No society can subsist in harmony and continued satis- 
faction to its own members, without having and observing proper rules 
for their government — ' God being a God (of order) not of confusion, but 
of peace, as in all the churches of the saints ' (I Cor. xiv, 33) ; and 
who commands that all things should be done decently and in order 
(I Cor. xiv, 40) — we the Vestry, and all who now are and intend to 
become members of said congregation, have adopted Rules for the 
regulation and external government of the affairs of this congregation." 



st. Matthew's church. 



63 



The early membership of this congregation were few 
in number. The first communion was held under the 
pastorate of Rev. John C. Guldin, on May 25, 1834. 
Thirty-two persons communed. Of these Mrs. Esther 
Hippie, Mrs. Sophia Smith, Mary Fetters (Kulp) and 
Margaret Dillinger (Frock) still remain. Toward the 
close of Rev. Guldin's ministry, the number of com- 
municants was larger, on one or two occasions it was 
double that of the first, but the records show a great 
deal of irregularity in attendance. Rev. Guldin 
closed his ministry in 1837 and was succeeded by 
Rev. Jacob Ziegler. St. Matthew's and St. Peter's 
(Warwick) then constituted a charge. The spiritual 
interests of the consrrecrations seem to have been on 
the decline about this time. In one place we find a 
list of twenty-four communicants recorded, and added 
to it is the following note : 

" The fewness of the number who communed may be accounted 
for, partly, through the inclemency of the weather, but largely by the 
fact that the love of many has grown cold." 

Rev. Zeigler continued his ministry only for a little 
more than a year. The reason, which he gives in a 
personal letter, being that the charge was not self- 
supporting. He died at York, Pa., 188- 

From 1839 to l &4° the charge was served by Rev. 
J. S. Wolf. There are no records of his ministry. 

On Nov. 14, 1840, Rev. Edward Smith was unan- 
imously elected pastor of St. Matthew's congregation. 
He accepted the call and preached his first sermon 



64 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



from Romans i, 16, Dec. 13, 1840. There were several 
additions to the membership of the church about this 
time, and the records also show a number of marriage 
and baptismal ceremonies performed by him. On 
March 21st, at a congregational meeting it was unan- 
imously decided " that Rev. E. D. Smith should not 
remain pastor of said church any longer than until 
May I, 1842." Rev. Smith was a noted imposter, ap- 
pearing under different names. He was received into 
Philadelphia Classis (1840) on forged papers purport- 
ing to have been given by the Congregational church. 
He was deposed from the ministry in 1843, but was 
received, as J. W. Bond, into the Classis of Virginia in 
1850, also on forged papers. From this body he was 
excommunicated in 1852. Subsequently he was 
arrested on the charge of horse stealing, and finally 
died in prison. 

Rev. Jacob Hangen was the next pastor, elected at 
a congregational meeting, June 27, 1842. His minis- 
try continued only for about nine months. He preached 
his last sermon at the house of a Mr. Langabach, in 
Skippack township, Montgomery county, and died in 
the same place a short time afterward. He lies buried 
in the cemetery of St. Luke's Reformed Church, Trappe, 
where the congregation (which he was also serving at 
that time) has placed a marble slab to his memory. 
Aged 37 years. 

On June 15, 1843, Licentiate Andrew S. Young was 
elected to the pastorate of this congregation and charge. 



st. Matthew's church. 



65 



On account of failing health, he was compelled to 
resign his pastorate at the close of 1844. R ev - Mr. 
Young was one of the excellent of the earth ; a man 
of classic culture and refined tastes. In his ministry 
he was earnest and faithful, and universally beloved. 
Died at Allentown, Pa., Feb. 15, 1848. 

Another short pastorate of this church was that of 
Rev. John C. Fulk, continuing from October, 1844, to 
September, 1845. Thus we have seven pastorates in 
about ten years. What results must follow such a 
state of things, we know by experience. In this case 
the membership had dwindled down to about eighteen 
in number. The frequent change of pastors, the lack 
of real vital zeal on the part of the members, and, per- 
haps, other causes unknown to the writer, combined 
very unfavorably for the future prospects of this con- 
gregation. The great wonder is that they survived, 
at all, the following six years, during which they were 
without a pastor. 

Early in the year 1850, Rev. Jesse B. Knipe com- 
menced his long and fruitful pastorate, which con- 
tinued until 1869. The scattered members of the con- 
gregation were gradually united, and those without 
brought under the influence of the church. In connec- 
tion with his first communion, there were received a 
number who still remain pillars in the church to-day. 
Father Knipe was a slow builder, but the structures 
whiph he completed were, as a rule, very little in dan- 



66 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



ger of tumbling down through unburnt or half-burnt 
bricks, or poorly prepared mortar. 

In the year i860 there was a great revival, which 
marked the beginning of a new epoch in this church. 
Over one hundred persons, it is said, professed con- 
version. Of these, about twenty-five united them- 
selves with the Reformed congregation. In 1866 
another great awakening in the church made an ad- 
dition of about the same number to the congregation. 

Immediately after the beginning of Rev. M. S. Row- 
land's ministry in April, 1869, the third great awak- 
ening in the history of this church took place. Fifty- 
three persons were received into Christian fellowship. 
Some of these, no doubt, are dead, but a large pro- 
portion of them have gone back into the world. 
Among the original number, fewer than a dozen can 
be traced as having any church relations at present. 
It was an instance of too rapid building. Rev. Row- 
land's ministry continued until May, 1879. He is 
now pastor of a Presbyterian church in Whitesville, 
New Jersey. 

His successor as pastor of St. Matthew's was Rev. 
L. D. Stambaugh, who commenced his ministry in 
May, 1879. About this time the Reformed congrega- 
tion purchased the interest of the Lutheran congrega- 
tion in the buildings and cemetery for $1000, the lat- 
ter having erected a very handsome church building 
about a half-mile distant, on the Conestoga pike. 
During the year 1880 the Reformed congregation also 



st. Matthew's church. 



6 7 



decided to erect a new church building upon the site 
then occupied by the old one. Christian K. Wood- 
land was the supervising architect of this building. 
The corner-stone was laid May 27, 1880, Rev. D. 
Ernest Klopp, D. D., preaching the sermon on this 
occasion. Through the liberal gifts and faithful ser- 
vice on the part of the members, the new building was 
completed and ready for dedication by October 6 of 
the same year. Rev. J. H. Sechler, of the First 
Church, Philadelphia, preached the sermon, and the 
dedicatory service was read by the pastor, Rev. L. D. 
Stambaugh. 

The building is among the finest of the country 
churches in northern Chester county. It is built of 
stone, sixty-five by forty-two feet, and two stories high. 
The appointments of the first floor are a spacious hall- 
way, a lecture or Sunday-school room furnished with 
moveable chairs, an infant class room and a library. 
On the second floor is the main audience room, a 
model of substantial and well-finished workmanship. 
It is lighted by fifteen rolled cathedral glass windows 
which were donated by the following parties : Malinda 
M. Acker, Mary M. Brownback, A. Fetters, W llliam 
Brownback, John and Esther Hippie, Samuel and 
Catharine Kimes, John and Hannah Brownback, 
Henry and S. Smith, Jacob Keely, the children, in 
memory of Joseph and Catharine Sturges, the child- 
ren, in memory of Dr. Jesse C. and M. Strickland, and 
the grandchildren, in memory of William and Magda- 



68 



REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



lene Parker; the two large windows in front were 
donated by the Sunday-school. The pews in this 
room are of black walnut, arranged in semi-circular 
style, and furnished with hair cushions. The floor is 
covered with a bright red carpet. Together with the 
gallery above the hallway, the seating capacity of this 
room is about 350 persons. The entire cost of the 
building was about $8000, with at least $2000 worth 
of material and labor donated. The grounds were 
nicely graded, and what appeared to be a very unfav- 
orable site for a church building now presents a neat 
and beautiful location. 

Following are the names of the building committee : 
Capt. A. Fetters, chairman; Cyrus Swinehart, secre- 
tary; J. B. Caldwell, treasurer; John B. Stauffer, Sam- 
uel StaufTer, John Mosteller, C. K. Mosteller, William 
Brownback, Jesse Sturges, John Hippie, Samuel Kimes 
and Isaac Smith. 

In May, 1883, Rev. L. D. Stambaugh resigned his 
pastorate, and was succeeded by Rev. E. D. Wettach, 
of Reedsburg, Ohio, who entered upon his work here 
on June 8, 1884. His ministry, which closed in Oc- 
tober, 1890, was characterized by a great deal of zeal 
and general activity. He enjoyed the confidence of 
his people, and as a pastor, was greatly beloved. He 
is now laboring in Trinity Reformed Mission, at 
Akron, Ohio. 

Beginning with October, 1890, until June, 1 891, the 
charge of which St. Matthew's forms a part, was with- 



st. Matthew's church. 



6 9 



out a regular pastor. During this time, the pulpits 
were supplied with students from Ursinus Theological 
Seminary. On June 14, 1 891 , licentiate J. Lewis 
Fluck was installed as pastor of the charge. (See 
History of St. Paul's Reformed Church.) 

At various periods in the history of this church, 
there have been those who desired to perpetuate their 
influence by making provision for its support after 
departing from this life. In this way the church came 
to be kindly remembered through the following be- 
quests: Conrad Keely, $100 (1847); Jacob Keely, 
$1500 (1861): John Brownback, $250 (1872); Eli 
Mock, $2300 (1883). 

In an organization of this kind, there are always 
certain ones who, by common consent, are chosen to 
assume the direction of its affairs. With this choice, 
as a matter of course, comes the responsibility of lead- 
ership. Some of those who have served the congre- 
gation in this capacity, and who were actively interest- 
ed in its temporal and spiritual affairs during the per- 
iod of her past history, are: Joseph Kulp, Henry 
Keely, Henry Hippie, William Parker, Conard Keely, 
Matthias Keely, George Sloyer, John Shimer, John 
Brownback, Jacob Kulp, William Brownback, Michael 
Fry, Henry Smith, David Stiteler. 

The present congregation numbers about 120 mem- 
bers. It has never been strong numerically, though 
its financial obligations have always been met. It has 
a productive endowment fund amounting to $2400. 



JO REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



The congregation is favorably known throughout the 
church for its benevolent gifts, both by the organiza- 
tion and especially by individual members. Among 
its present membership is a large number of young 
people, whose active and intelligent interest in the 
Master's work bespeaks a useful future for the con- 
gregation. 

The Sunday-school interest dates back to the time 
of the church organization. It took definite shape 
some time during the year 1833, though we can find 
no records going back further than 1838. From this 
time on there is a well-preserved record until 1850. 
The number of scholars varies from seventy-six, the 
highest, to nineteen, the lowest. Samuel Walleigh, 
Davis Rhoades, George Heck, Thomas Rooke, Wash- 
ington Stiteler, George Hartman and George Fetters 
acted in the capacity of Superintendent until 1850. 
William Eachus filled the office for a number of years 
subsequent to this date, and then begins the long 
period of nearly thirty years during which John B. 
Stauffer faithfully discharged its duties. The present 
Superintendent is Allen H. Simmers. The Sunday- 
school is well organized, and the work aggressively 
carried forward by a corps of competent and devoted 
teachers. As the past has been an inspiration to the 
present, so may the present be an inspiration for the 
future. 



"SUNNYS1DE." 



THE PARSONAGE OF ST. MATTHEWS CHARGE. 



After the union (1885) of St. Matthew's and St. 
Paul's Reformed churches into one pastoral charge, 
it was decided that they would jointly erect a parson- 
age for the use of their pastor. The representative 
committees accordingly secured 1 l /i acres of land at 
Anselma, Pa., upon which the parsonage was erected. 
It is a spacious brick building with pressed brick front. 
The shape is that of an L, and there are porches on 
three sides. The internal appointments consist of 
thirteen rooms, suitably arranged for the comfort and 
convenience of their occupants, an abundant supply 
of hot and cold water on the second floor, bath room, 
drainage, etc. The building is heated from the cellar 
by hot air, and supplied with water from an artesian 
well 118 feet deep. It is also partly furnished. The 
out-buildings were designed with a view to their present 
use. It is located midway between the two churches, on 
the Pickering Valley Railroad, thus affording excellent 
mail and railroad facilities. It, therefore, makes a very 
desirable residence for a country pastor. The cost of 
the buildings and ground was $4500. 



ST. VINCENT REFORMED CHURCH. 



EAST VINCENT TOWNSHIP. 



In going from Phoenixville to the Falls of French 
creek by the Ridge road, four Reformed churches 
meet the eye of the traveler. Among the number 
perhaps none of them is more beautifully located than 
St. Vincent. In the words of a recent writer — "The 
situation is one of great natural beauty. One can 
catch glimpses of the counties of Delaware, Montgom- 
ery, Berks and Lancaster. The near surrounding 
landscape is a panorama of fertile farms, graced with 
beautiful and substantial farm buildings which bespeak 
the thrift and enterprise of the happy owners. This 
congregation may well take, pride in their neat sur- 
roundings, as there are but few congregations whose 
lines fall in pleasanter places." 

We have endeavored to make this history as com- 
plete and accurate as possible. Material facts have 
been sought after, but we labored under great disad- 
vantage from the fact that the records have not been 
kept as correctly as they might have been. What we 
have gleaned, therefore, we present to the public with 
the hope that it may be of some value at least to the 
reader. 



ST. VINCENT CHURCH. 



73 



The original members of this church were formerly 
members of East Vincent Reformed Church. As far 
back as 1834, owing to some differences arising at the 
time, each congregation was supplied by a minister 
from the same synod but not the same classis. By an 
article of agreement drawn up at the time, both con- 
gregations worshipped in the same building, one on 
one Sunday, the other on the following. In this way 
they continued to worship until 1848. During these 
years, no doubt, one thing led to another, making mat- 
ters more and more difficult to settle, so that in Octo- 
ber, 185 1, St. Vincent sold her interest in the mother 
church, and concluded to erect a building of her own 
for the worship of God. We have no comments to 
offer, as we were asked to give facts only, but what 
might be one large congregation to-day, is unfortun- 
ately divided into two smaller ones. 

For the purpose of appointing a committee to secure 
a site for the location of a church, the first meeting 
was held at the home of Henry Yeager, Sr., November. 
15, 1851. 

The committee, consisting of John Yeager, Sr., 
Daniel Hippie and Abraham Taney, bought two acres 
of land at $100 an acre, from John Longaker. On 
this tract the present church edifice stands. At 
another meeting, a building committee was appointed 
consisting of John Ash, Henry Yeager, Sr., Peter 
Yeager, Sr., John Yeager, Sr., and George Yeager. 
Though it was in the Fall of the year and the Winter 



74 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

season rapidly approaching, work was commenced at 
once, so that by Easter Monday, 1852, the corner- 
stone was laid. Rev. Samuel Seifert and Rev. J. 
Clement Miller officiated at this service. As one of 
the brethren stated, "this occasion gave us new cour- 
age, for then and there we found that though our 
flock was small, we had the good wishes and support 
of the Christian people and friends in the immediate 
neighborhood." 

On September 4 of the same year, the church was 
dedicated. The people had great reason to rejoice 
this day. But a year ago in the same month they 
purchased the ground, and now they saw with their 
own eyes what people can do in so short a time if they 
have a mind to work. Davis Yeager has in his pos- 
session a copy of the "Montgomery Ledger" of that 
date wherein we find the following : " The St. Vincent 
German Reformed Church on the Ridge road, East 
Vincent township, Chester county, was dedicated to 
the service and worship of God on Sunday, September 
4th. There were services both morning and afternoon, 
on Saturday and Sunday. The following ministers 
preached on the occasion : Rev. Conrad Miller, Rev. 
Dubbs, Jr., Rev. J. Clement Miller, and the pastor of the 
congregation, Rev. S. Seibert." The building was forty- 
two by sixty feet, two stories high, and cost $1999.86. 

It was only a very short time after the dedication 
that pastor Seibert severed his connection with the 
congregation, and left them without a shepherd. 



ST. VINCENT CHURCH. 



75 



Previous to May 19, 1853, St. Vincent was an 
independent congregation, but on this date a commit- 
tee authorized by Philadelphia Classis, and consisting 
of Revs. Samuel Helffenstein, Jacob B. Keller and 
John S. Ermentrout, received it into Christian fellow- 
ship, and ordained and installed the following officers : 
elders, John Taney, Henry Munshower, Daniel Hip- 
pie, Jesse, William, and John Yeager; deacons, Amos 
Keiter, Samuel Ash, Christian Wagoner. 

Rev. E. W. Reinecke received and accepted a call 
as pastor of the congregation. In connection with 
his work here, he was also assistant teacher in an 
academy in Norristown. His first church record in 
the register was made October 23, 1853, and his min- 
istry extended over a period of one year and two 
months. Upon this date the first communion wss 
celebrated in the new church with 67 communicants 
participating. Of this number only seventeen remain 
who can compare the present work with the past, and 
who still have the privilege of coming to the Lord's 
table. Rev. Reinecke was born in Germany, and 
emigrated to this country when fourteen years of age. 
Having served as tutor in Marshall College for two 
years, and as pastor at Millersville, Pa., for five years, 
he commenced his labors in this congregation in the 
Fall of 1853. His stay was a brief one, but he endear- 
ed himself to the people. Being in his early man- 
hood and in the possession of more than ordinary 
intellectual powers, no doubt he would have given 



j6 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



quite an impetus to the work if his services could have 
been continued. He was afterwards assistant pastor 
to his father at Shrewsbury, York county, Pa., pastor 
at Frederick, Md., Plainfield, Pa. In the last charge 
his ministry came to an end with his death, May 8, 
1 89 1, aged 68 years and 5 months. 

From 1854 to 1856 classis furnished a supply in the 
person of Rev. Geo. D. Wolff, who was pastor of the 
church of the Ascension, Norristown, Pa. 

The next regular pastor was Henry Weisler, who 
entered upon the duties of his office June 15, 1856. 
This was his first field, having only recently graduated 
from the Eastern Theological Seminary, Lancaster, 
Pa. That he was truly devoted to the cause of Christ 
and his church may readily be inferred from the im- 
mediate fruits of his labors. The church record shows 
that from the very beginning of his pastorate to the 
close, there was a gradual increase in membership. 
But the people had only fairly learned to know and 
love him when another vacancy was caused by his 
resignation. In order that we may show the esteem 
the people had for their beloved shepherd, we will give 
a part of the resolution adopted in the acceptance of 
his resignation. 

* * * . Be it further 

Resolved, That our pastor, by his humble walk and sincere devo- 
tion to the kingdom of Christ on earth, has won our affectionate attach- 
ment and esteem. 

Resolved, That we sincerely recommend him to the people of his 
new field of labor as a worthy laborer in the vineyard of the Lord. 



ST. VIN'CENT CHURCH. 



77 



After ministering in various charges in Virginia, 
West Virginia and Man-land for a period of twenty- 
six years, he was obliged to retire on account of ill 
health. His death occurred April 13, 1889, in 
Mechanicstown, Md., aged 57 years. 

Only a short time intervened when Rev. Jesse B. 
Knipe commenced his long and faithful (supply) pas- 
torate of twenty-four years among this people. His 
whole ministry was spent in Chester county, and was 
brought to a close in the then "St. Vincent and Pike- 
land" charge, January 21, 1882. This was done with 
great reluctance, for his spirit was still willing, but his 
flesh was too weak to follow his ministerial duties 
any longer. Father Knipe, as he is familiarly known, 
was not what we would call a man of broad culture 
and polished scholarship, but he was devout and rev- 
erent, full of faith and love for the Master. In his 
ministerial labors he carried his religion with him 
wherever he went, making things pertaining to his 
Master's cause bear some practical relations to the 
affairs of daily life. His unassuming ways and quite 
life won him many friends outside of his own flock. 
This was very evident when the present pastor col- 
lected money to put a double window of stained glass 
into the new church to his blessed memory. Persons 
who heard of the movement, without our solicitation, 
contributed to that fund. 

Under his leadership the congregation did not in- 
crease very rapidly in membership, but those whom 



78 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



he did gain for Christ's kingdom still speak of him 
with the greatest respect and reverence. In his day a 
new plot of ground containing five acres was added to 
the cemetery, making it seven acres altogether. The 
church now being located as nearly central as possible, 
and ornamental trees being planted the whole length 
of the lot bordering on the Ridge road added very 
considerably to outside appearances. 

We can not refrain from mentioning his spirit of 
practical benevolence when this ground was bought. 
Receiving $150 as pastoral salary for the year, on the 
day of settlement he handed back $50 toward the 
cemetery fund. 

In 1 86 1 classis constituted this and Pikeland con- 
gregation a charge. As was said, here he labored 
until his resignation, January, 1882. The following 
resolutions were adopted by the consistory : 

Resolved, That we accept our beloved pastor's resignation with 
deep regret and sorrow, and pray that he may be spared to us for many 
years, and worship with us whenever his health permits. 

Thus ended the pastoral labors of one who was 
loyal to duty, and now only awaited the crown of the 
righteous. He departed this life June 18, 1884. A 
large concourse of friends followed him to his last 
resting place in Pikeland cemetery, Chester county, 
Pa. At his request, his successor, Rev. S. P. Mauger, 
delivered the funeral address, and was assisted in the 
services by brethren of the Philadelphia Classis, of 
which he was a member. 



ST. VINCENT CHURCH. 



79 



Rev. Mauger, a graduate of Heidelberg College and 
Theological Seminary, had charge of this congrega- 
tion for a year already, having come from Ohio July 
15, 1882. His labors of three years and nine months 
brought about many desirable changes in the congre- 
gation. Being a young man, he was full of activity 
and zeal, and it did not take the congregation very 
long to imbibe some of it, at least. The adoption of 
the envelope system for the collection of the pastoral 
salary, the organization of the Ladies' Mite Society, 
and an increase in benevolent contributions, are some 
of the works of his hands. His resignation was hand- 
ed in and took effect April 15, 1886. At present he 
is very acceptably serving the people of Stone Re- 
formed Church, Northampton county, Pa. 

A vacancy again occurred, which lasted for a year. 
During this time the pulpit was supplied by students 
from the theological department of Ursinus College. 

The charge was now reconstructed, and St. Vincent 
was joined to Linfield Reformed Church, Montgomery 
county, Pa., and is at present known as the St. Vin- 
cent and Linfield charge. 

The present pastor, Rev. J. A. Mertz, entered this, 
his first field of labor, in May, 1887. He was ordain- 
ed and installed in this church, June 12, 1887, in the 
presence of representatives of both congregations. As 
a vacancy is more or less detrimental to the interests of 
a congregation, in this case it seemed especially so. 
Forces and influences outside of the congregation 



80 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

were at work that almost proved fatal to the organi- 
zation. But their new relation with Linfield, and 
their newly-elected pastor, gave them fresh courage 
and hope. One year's pastorate had wrought a great 
change for the better. It was said by one of our 
Reformed pastors that "the St. Vincent people were 
a little slow, but when they made a move they would 
go at it with a will." There seems to be a great deal of 
truth in this saying, if we may judge from what they 
did in the last few years. Three years ago in May, a 
meeting was held to take action upon the matter of 
putting a new roof on the church. Fortunately the 
meeting on that day, after some discussion, turned 
out a "remodeling meeting." In June, 1889, the de- 
molishing of the church began, and by November of 
the same year the congregation held services in their 
new home, though it was not dedicated until February, 
1890. "This was a day that shall never be forgotten 
by pastor and people alike, for it brought sunshine 
and cheer as well as great rejoicing to both, for what 
the Lord had done for them. Besides, such blessings 
as these led young and old to a fuller consecration to 
the Master's service, such as we had not seen it 
before." 

The late Dr. J. H. A. Bomberger preached the 
dedicatory sermon. The Rev. H. Hilbish then made 
an appeal that the amount of the present indebtedness 
be raised before it was dedicated to the Lord's service. 



ST. VINCENT CHURCH. 



8l 



More than was needed was the response to his appeal. 
The pastor then set it apart for God's service. 

The building is one story, forty-two by sixty feet in 
size. A vestibule on the east and west side, and a 
recess back of the pulpit and in the wall facing the 
road, add much to the outside appearance, and are 
additions to the old building. The Sunday-school 
room and auditorium are divided by a partition which 
can be raised in case of a large gathering. The win- 
dows are gothic, of rolled cathedral glass, and most 
beautiful in design. The walls are frescoed, pews cir- 
cular, pulpit, chancel and aisles carpeted, making it in 
every respect what many people call it — "A cosy 
little city church built in the country." The cost of 
the church is about $6000. The building committee 
consisted of the following : Abraham Taney, Christian 
Friday, Jesse Ash, Nathan Yeager, O. T. Taney, W. 
H. Yeager, A. E. Yeager, Jones Yeager, Elmer T. 
Prizer. A great deal of credit is due to the Ladies' 
Mite Society in furnishing the church, and to the 
financial committee, composed of Mrs. Andora Rapp, 
Lucetta Friday, Mary Brower, Alice Rowland, Amanda 
Yeager, and Misses Florence Taney, May Hippie and 
Mame Detwiler, in collecting the money for the church 
building. 

The Sunday-school is the nursery of the church, 
and from the very beginning such an organization 
was maintained side by side with the church. Much 
of the increase in the present church-membership has 



82 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



been drawn from it. It is but right, therefore, to make 
mention of the superintendent who labored faithfully 
among the young. The school was organized in the 
Spring of 1853 by its first superintendent, Davis Yea- 
ger. It then numbered 40 scholars — now it reaches 
140. The others followed in the order named: Jesse 
Yeager, Abraham Taney, Jesse Ash, Frank M. Yea- 
ger, O. T. Taney, and at present, E. T. Prizer. 

The prospects of the congregation for the future 
are most encouraging. A communicant membership 
of 125, a Sunday-school under the efficient manage- 
ment of its superintendent, E. T. Prizer, an interesting 
Y. P. S. C. E., a flourishing Ladies' Mite Society, and 
the most pleasant relation existing between pastor and 
people, should make this congregation a power for 
good in the salvation of souls for the Master. 



ST. PAUL'S REFORMED CHURCH. 

UWCHLAN. 



Many years ago, there stood on the triangular lot, 
directly opposite the present site of St. Paul's church, 
a building known as the " White School House." The 
date of its construction we have not been able to 
ascertain, but as far back as living memory reaches it 
was a land-mark of the community. Here in this 
school-house, hallowed by many recollections of ten- 
der and of sacred interest, the religious impulse of the 
community first erected an altar of worship to Al- 
mighty God. 

In the summer of 1833, William Colton, a Presby- 
terian, and William Harrison, a Methodist, organized 
a Sunday-school, which was like the " grain of mus- 
tard seed" — small in its beginnings, but which, under 
God's providential care and blessing, grew to be a 
potent and ever-enlarging influence to this day. Out 
of that little Sunday-school, two congregations have 
sprung, two church buildings erected, and the work 
for the good of humanity and the glory of God is 
still actively carried on, both in the neighborhood of 
the White School House and by missionaries abroad. 

In the year 1835 the Sunday-school work received 



84 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



a vigorous impulse from the active zeal and intelligent 
leadership of Dr. Phillip Peltz, of Philadelphia, who 
became a resident in the neighborhood. He was a 
member of the Reformed church, a man of consider- 
able intelligence, distinguished alike for his piety and 
his zeal in the Lord's work. He soon became an 
earnest worker in the Sunday-school. Such was the 
fervor of his spirit, that in a short time he had enlisted 
the interest and sympathy of nearly all the families in 
the neighborhood, who supported him with their aid 
and assistance, so that in a short time the school-house 
was too small to accommodate the people who assem- 
bled from Sabbath to Sabbath. 

The influence of this Sunday-school was such as to 
awaken within the hearts of the people a desire for 
larger religious privileges. Accordingly, ministers of 
various denominations were invited to preach in the 
school-house at stated periods. Rev. Jesse B. Knipe, 
it seems, had been preaching to these people more or 
less regularly, since 1830. Rev. Frederick Ruthrauff, 
pastor of the Lutheran church at Pikeland, also con- 
ducted services here for several years previous to the 
permanent organization of a church. The religious 
community of St. Paul's consisted mostly of Lutheran 
and Reformed people belonging to one or the other 
of the Pikeland congregations. Being considerably 
removed by distance, and perhaps with limited oppor- 
tunities to attend upon the means of grace, they would 
naturally have been interested in any movement look- 



st. Paul's church. 



85 



ing toward the organization of a church in their midst. 

In any event, the zeal and interest manifested in 
these services and the work of the Sunday-school, the 
evident desire on the part of the people to have a per- 
manent church home, made a house of worship a 
practical necessity. 

As it would appear from the records, the leaders 
of both denominations proceeded with the work of 
building a church before organizing the congrega- 
tions. At least, it is expressly stated that the meet- 
ing for the organization of the Reformed congrega- 
tion was " held in the church." The names of some 
of those connected with this movement from the be- 
ginning, are : Peter Acker, Frederick Ruthrauff, John 
Davis, Elias Oberholtzer, John Stiteler, Moses Hart- 
man, Samuel Fetters, George March, Peter Stiteler, 
Rev. Jesse B. Knipe. On February 9, 1838, a meeting 
was held at the house of Peter Acker to take into con- 
sideration the building of a house of public worship. 
John Stiteler w T as president of this meeting, and Rev. 
Frederick Ruthrauff, secretary. It was decided to erect 
a union church for the use of the Evangelical (afterwards 
changed to St. Paul's) Lutheran and Reformed con- 
gregations, in the vicinity of the" White School House." 
The site selected is the one on which the present St. 
Paul's church stands, and the ground was originally 
donated by Peter Stiteler. It was further decided at 
this meeting that each denomination keep its own 
treasury and pay its own half of the expenses. All 



86 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



money collected from members of either denomination 
was to go into that treasury, while money contributed 
by members of neither denomination were to be divided 
into halves, unless specifically given by the donors to 
either one. Proposals were invited from different 
sources. The lowest being that of John Hartman, the 
contract was awarded to him for $1483, he to find all 
materials except the date stone and door sills; the 
service of delivering mortar to the masons was also to 
be provided for by the building committee. The work 
was pushed forward with considerable energy and zeal, 
and on the 5th of June, 1838, in the presence of a 
large assembly, the corner-stone, containing the cus- 
tomary documents, was laid. The following ministers 
were present on this occasion : Jesse B. Knipe, Fred- 
erick Ruthrauff, I. I. Graff, Presbyterian, of West 
Chester, and J. Ziegler, Reformed, of St. Matthew's. 
Rev. John Ruthrauff and Rev. I. I Graff preached 
appropriate sermons. Immediately after this event 
the work of its erection was resumed, and, under, the 
care of a gracious providence, the church was reared 
and finished without anything of a serious nature 
taking place to excite sorrow or to cause regret, and 
on the 6th and 7th days of November, 1838, it was 
dedicated to the services of Almighty God. The fol- 
fowing ministers were present on the occasion: J. P. 
Hecht, of Easton ; C. W. Shaffer, of Barren Hill ; H. 
S. Miller, ofTrappe; G. Mintzer, of West Vincent; C. 
Moore, of Vincent; J. Ziegler, of St. Matthew's. Rev. 



st. Paul's church. 



87 



Jesse B. Knipe, of the Reformed church, performed the 
dedicatory service. The season was a thronged and 
busy one among the farmers, yet it is said that the 
church was filled in every part during the two days 
and thrice a day. 

The church home thus erected and dedicated, was 
built of stone, forty-five bv thirty-eight feet, and one 
story high. There were two windows in the back of 
the house and three on each side, having twelve lights, 
twelve by sixteen inches. Two doors in the front 
served as places of entrance. The floor was in the 
shape of an inclined plane, having eighteen inches "dip'' 
from the doors to the pulpit. Two aisles, running 
through the full length of the house, divided the pews 
into three rows. 

Such, in brief, was the house that for forty-four 
years served as a holy place of worship and of prayer. 
With but a very few exceptions, all of those whose 
hearts and voices mingled in its opening services have 
passed that "bourne from which no traveler e'er re- 
turned." 

On December 25, 1838, a meeting was held for the 
purpose of organizing the Reformed congregation. 
John Stiteler and Samuel Fetters were chosen as 
trustees, George March and Nicholas March as elders, 
and John Davis and Samuel March as deacons. At 
this meeting the Rev. Jesse B. Knipe was also officially 
recognized as pastor. The sacrament of the Lord's 
Supper was administered the first time in this church 



88 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



on May 6, 1839, to twenty communicants. The 
reader may be interested to know who they were. 
Their names are as follows : Jacob Acker, George 
March, Sr., George March, Jr., John Davis, John La- 
baugh, Nicholas March, Samuel March, Rebecca 
Davis, Eve Henry, Margaret Labaugh, Eve Fisher, 
Maria Davis, Maria Stiteler, Rebecca March, Catharine 
Smith, Ellen March, Catharine March, Mary March, 
Rebecca Davis, Ann March, James R. Douglass. 

From this time on nothing eventful had taken place 
in the history of the congregation until 1852. The 
growth in membership was gradual, though the mater- 
ial seems to have been of a substantial character. In 
1852 through some unfortunate disagreement of opin- 
ion, which, however, in the providence of God has 
been overruled for great good, the congregations 
decided to separate. The Lutheran congregation sold 
its interest in the buildings and grounds to the Reform- 
ed for $700, the former moving to Lionville, where a 
church was erected which has since become an influ- 
ence for much good. For more than a score of years 
from this time on we find a great deal upon the records 
which was interesting, no doubt, in its time, but has 
little value as forming subject matter for history. It 
relates mostly to the transaction of routine business, 
but, at the same time, shows a genuine interest in the 
spiritual and temporal concerns of the church. The 
names most frequently found upon the minute book, 
are Daniel B. Lacy, Bohlen Peterman, John Fetters, 



st. paul's church. 



8 9 



I. F. Snyder, Geo. W. Stine, Samuel Stiteler, F. 
Rhodewalt and James Marshall. Some of these seem 
to have served the church in about every capacity. 
Now it is the raising of pastor's salary, now it is the 
collecting of alms for the poor, or the arranging of 
cemetery lots, or the direction of workmen, or the 
repairing of property, etc. Always with a cheerful 
heart and a willing hand they seem to have served the 
church. 

Father Knipe, having become infirm through age 
toward the close of this period, the desirability of an 
assistant in his pastoral labors was suggested to him. 
The idea met with his approval, and accordingly the 
services of two young men from the Ursinus Theolog- 
ical Seminary were secured. In this way the work 
was carried on until January 16, 1881, when Father 
Knipe tendered his resignation, having served in the 
ministry for over fifty years. The feelings of the con- 
gregation upon this extraordinary occasion are ex- 
pressed in the following resolutions adopted at a meet- 
ing held for that purpose : 

Whereas, The Rev. Jesse B. Knipe, after a pastorate of fifty years, 
in which, by his fidelity and zeal in the cause of the Master, he has 
been greatly endeared to us as a church, has now, on account of the 
infirmities of age which are pressing heavily upon him, seen fit to resign 
his office, and his resignation being by us accepted, it seems fit and 
proper that expression should be given to our feelings on this extra- 
ordinary occasion. Therefore, be it 

Resolved, By the consistory and membership of St. Paul's Reformed 
Church, that we recognize with gladness the goodness of our Heavenly 
Father in so long sparing to us our aged pastor and father in Christ, 



gO REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

and humbly pray that with lessened care and responsibility, his life may 
yet be much prolonged to bless and cheer us in this vale of shadows. 

Resolved, That while the official relation existing between us as 
pastor and people is dissolved, we feel that the Christian and fraternal 
relation will remain, and that we will gladly welcome him into our 
midst whenever, in the providence of God, he may be able to visit us. 

Resolved, That we humbly trust that we as a people may be enabled 
to faithfully discharge the duties of the Christian life as we have been 
taught them, no less by his example than precept, and thus be fitted to 
finally share with him an eternity of bliss at God's right hand in Heaven. 

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be engrossed and pre- 
sented to Father Knipe, and that they also be published in the county 
papers. 



At the close of Father Knipe's active ministry, it was 
deemed to be to the best interests of both congrega- 
tions that the former relations between St. Paul's and 
St. Peter's (Pikeland) cease. St. Peter's was afterward 
united with St. John's, Phoenixville, and St. Vincent* 
while St. Paul's remained a charge by itself. To the 
pastorate of this charge Rev. A. R. Thompson, of Hum- 
melstown, Pa., was called on January 24, 1881. The 
union thus formed between pastor and people did not 
turn out to be a congenial one. Certain differences 
of opinion did not combine favorably toward harmony 
and peace, and it was deemed to the best interests of 
the congregation, that the pastoral relations cease. 
Rev. Thompson presented his resignation to take 
effect July 1, 1883. 

On or about March 1, 1881, the congregation pur- 




IB. Peterman, \ Committee. 
G. W. Stine, J 



st. paul's church. 



9i 



chased the house and lot now owned by E. Edward 
Super, from Richard Pearson, for the sum of $2500. 
This was used as a parsonage until May 4, 1885, when 
it was sold again to the original owner for the sum of 
$2100. 

From July i, 1883, continuing until June 15, 1884, 
the congregation was without a regular pastor. Dur- 
ing a part of this time the pulpit was supplied with 
students from Ursinus Theological Seminary, but 
toward the close of the period the services, catecheti- 
cal work, etc., were in charge of Rev. L. D. Stam- 
baugh, then pastor of St. Matthew's. 

The roof of the old church being in need of repairs, 
and there being a sentiment favorable to the erection 
of a house of worship better adapted to the needs of 
the congregation, it was thought a fitting time to bring 
the matter to the attention of the members. At a 
congregational meeting held on September 5, 1883, it 
was decided to erect a new church building. The 
following members were appointed as a building com- 
mittee to take the matter in hand: John Fetters, 
Daniel B. Lacy, Jerome March, Frederick Rhodewalt 
and I. F. Snyder. The last services held in the old 
church were of a special character. They were held 
on Sunday, March 30, 1884. Rev. L. D. Stambaugh 
preached his farewell sermon, and Rev. W. T. Rentz, 
of the Lutheran, and Rev. Wm. Bull, of the Protestant 
Episcopal church, delivered short addresses. A short 



92 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



history of the church since its organization was also 
read by the secretary. 

Cheerful gifts, earnest hearts and willing hands, 
greatly facilitated the work, which was contracted for 
by Christian Woodland for $3500. The corner-stone 
was laid on April 19, 1884, Rev. S. P. Mauger preach- 
ing the sermon. The new building was entirely under 
roof when Rev. E. D. Wettach, of Reedsburg, Ohio, 
became supply pastor for St. Paul's and St. Matthew's, 
with the understanding that should the arrangement 
prove satisfactory at the end of one year, both should 
be united into one charge. Rev. Wettach was install- 
ed June 15, 1884, and at the next annual meeting of 
Classis, the two congregations were united into what 
is now known as St. Matthew's charge. On January 
15, 1885, the new building was dedicated to the ser- 
vices of Almighty God, Rev. J. H. A. Bomberger, D. 
D., President of Ursinus College, preaching the ser- 
mon, while the dedicatory service was read by the 
pastor, Rev. E. D. Wettach. Rev. H. T. Spangler, of 
Trappe, preached the sermon in the evening. 

The style of architecture for this new church is 
Gothic, forty by fifty-six feet, and two stories high. 
The doors and windows are trimmed with serpentine 
stone, which adds much to the outside appearance. 
On the first floor is a spacious hallway, a lecture room, 
an infant class room, and a library. The lecture room 
is furnished with moveable chairs. The main audience 
room is on the second floor, lighted by thirteen rolled 



st. paul's church. 



93 



cathedral glass windows, which have been donated by 
the following parties: B. and C. Peterman, D. B. and 
C. Lacy, John and Elizabeth Fetters, Jerome March, 
Mrs. Malinda Acker, Mrs. Ann Davis and family (in 
memory of Madison Davis), the Stiteler family (in 
memory of their parents, John and Maria Stiteler), 
Geo. W. Stine and I. F. Snyder. The Sunday-school 
donated the one in memory of Rev. Jesse B. Knipe, 
also the two large and one of the small windows in front. 

The seating of the main audience room is arranged 
in semi-circular style. The pews are of black walnut, 
cushioned, and the floor covered with a bright woolen 
carpet. The place for the choir is to the left of the 
pulpit as you enter. The seating capacity of this room, 
together with the gallery above the hallway, is about 
300 persons. Altogether the building is neatly and 
fittingly furnished, and is one in which the congrega- 
tion can justly take pride. 

The cost of the building and furnishings, by the 
treasurer's account, amounted to $5, 5 59.18. This, 
together with a half-interest in the handsome parson- 
age at Anselma, erected at a cost of S4500, has been 
entirely provided for by the congregation, leaving a 
balance on interest. 

There have also been bequeathed to this church at 
various times, the following amounts: Jacob Acker, 
$500(1843); Isaac Fetters, $500 (1 861); Jacob Keely, 
$500 (1861); Jacob Acker, Jr., 3500 (1876); Rev. 
Jesse B. Knipe, S500 (1884). 



94 



REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



The congregation has never been strong in mem- 
bership, but has always been able to meet its financial 
obligations. The membership seems to have reached 
its highest, numerically, during the pastorate of Rev. 
E. D. Wettach, when it numbered 120. At the time 
the present pastor was installed, the number of mem- 
bers was found to be about 100, which number has 
slightly increased. The present membership consists 
largely of young persons, whose active and intelligent 
interest in the Master's work bespeaks a useful future 
for this congregation. 

The first organ was introduced into this church 
about the year 1877. The effect of this was to awaken 
the musical talent of the congregation which hereto- 
fore had found but limited opportunities for exercise. 
About three years ago, Mrs. E. A. Pommer, of Exton, 
Pa., actively interested herself in the work of the choir. 
She at once enlisted the sympathy of all, and the 
interest of those who recognized the value of the 
opportunity which was open to them. Since then 
regular choir meetings have been held once a week, 
the musical talent of the congregation has been won- 
derfully developed, so that the choir of St. Paul's has 
become an institution admired and spoken of by all 
who had and are still having the privilege of listening 
to its sweet strains. 

On September 10, 1889, Rev. E. D. Wettach pre- 
sented his resignation to take effect on the following 
October 1st. He removed to Akron, Ohio, where he 



st. Paul's church. 



95 



now has charge of Trinity Reformed Mission. His 
work here was successful and prosperous. On Janu- 
ary 4, 1 89 1, J. Lewis Fluck, then a student in Ursinus 
Theological Seminary, was unanimously elected as 
supply pastor, with a view of extending him a call to 
the pastorate after having completed his studies The 
arrangement seemed satisfactory, and on May 12 
the joint consistory extended a unanimous call from 
the St. Matthew's charge. He was ordained and 
installed at St. Paul's Reformed Church, June 16. 
The relation entered into at that time, so far as can be 
ascertained, still continues pleasant and profitable. 
The following are the officers of the church at this 
time: Trustees, John Fetters, Bohlen Peterman and 
J. Elwood Stiteler. Deacons, F. Rhodewalt, P. W. 
Himes, John Stine, E. Edward Super and James Mar- 
shall. Elders, Andrew Moore, Geo. W. Stine, Daniel 
B. Lacy and Samuel Stiteler. 

The Sunday-school, which was the forerunner of 
the church, still continues to support her interests by 
its efficient work in the line of Biblical study. The 
names of its superintendents from the beginning are 
William Colton, John Davis, Madison Davis, John 
Stiteler, Daniel B. Lacy, Isaiah Snyder, and the pres- 
ent superintendent, Geo. W. Stine. The present or- 
ganization is made up of human beings at all stages of 
life — children, whose little feet have just climbed out 
of the cradle; youth, standing upon the threshold of 
life's opening doo/; mature life, on whose shoulders 



96 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

rests the heat and burden of the day ; and old age, 
reading with increased interest the words, " and I saw 
a new heaven and a new earth." All are assembled 
from Sabbath to Sabbath, to find out the meaning and 
purpose of life from Him who said " Learn of Me." 



SHENKEL'S REFORMED CHURCH. 



SHENKEL'S REFORMED CHURCH. 



During the early years of the world's history, God 
made men's lives so long that they could tell the 
events of one generation to the children of the next. 
Mankind, then, it seems, possessed a memory suffici- 
ently tenacious to retain what they thus heard. But 
in our own age, men no longer depend upon memory. 
Everything must be recorded in books and writing, 
so that it becomes an easy matter to refer at once to 
the history of any event or circumstance. 

In writing the history of Shenkel's Reformed Church, 
the work would have been greatly facilitated had we 
in our possession any such written records. Our only 
sources of information are the traditions that are in 
possession of the present generation, and such facts as 
could be remembered by two aged members of the old 
church. To a certain extent this is uncertain, but we 
have sifted it, and what is here given is in brief the 
history of Shenkel's church. 

Prior to the year 1835, no regular religious services 
were held in this part of Chester county. About this 
time, however, Rev. John C. Guldin, pastor of Brown- 
back's and other Reformed churches in Chester county, 
held occasional services in what is now called Shen- 



REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



kel's school-house, and also in the village of Stump 
Town, now called Cedarville. For about two years, 
Rev. Guldin labored in this community, and aroused 
considerable interest among the people. The field 
was large, and the opportunity for doing good was 
encouraging, so that the people decided to have the 
means of grace administered more frequently and with 
greater regularity. 

With this end in view, a public meeting was held in 
the house of Edward Posey, to consider the advisability 
of organizing a German Reformed church. This 
meeting was well attended and a lively interest mani- 
fested by all. It was accordingly decided to form a 
congregation which should be known as "The Second 
German Reformed Church in Coventry township." 
At that time there was but one township where now 
there are three. 

Henry Sabold, Jr., and Philip Kingkerger were 
elected elders of the church, and Edward Posey and 
Lewis Spiese were elected deacons, all of whom were 
duly ordained and installed into their offices by Rev. 
John C. Guldin, on December II, 1837. 

About this time a series of special evangelistic meet- 
ings were held, when the spirit of God was poured out 
on the people, and many conversions took place, 
eleven of whom united with the church. 

For some time the members had been contemplating 
the building of a house of worship. The accommoda- 
tions afforded by the school-house were no longer. 



shenkel's church. 



99 



sufficient to meet the demands of the growing congre- 
gation. Accordingly, at a meeting of the congrega- 
tion held on January I, 1838, a proposition for build- 
ing a house of worship was submitted and finally 
accepted. A committee consisting of Henry Spiese 
and Edward Posey were to erect a building suitable 
to the needs of the congregation. 

The committee purchased a small tract of land from 
the farm known as Shenkel's farm, since made memor- 
able by the committal of a brutal murder. The grand- 
father of the present treasurer of the congregation, 
Henry Spiese, who was deeply interested in the work 
and may be called the father of the church, was ap- 
pointed builder. Ever since the organization of the 
congregation, the office of treasurer was held by 
Spieses, with the exception of a few years. Plans 
were soon agreed upon, and willing hands and hearts 
took hold of the work and carried it forward, so that 
on Whit Monday, June 4, 1838, the corner-stone was 
laid. A copy of the Old and New Testament, a hymn- 
book of the German Reformed church, a Heidelberg 
catechism, and a constitution of the German Reformed 
Church in North America, were placed in it. The 
officiating ministers on that occasion were Rev. John 
C. Guldin, who preached from Matt. 21, 44: and Rev. 
Jacob Ziegler, who preached from Col. 1, 28. The 
work was pushed forward with rapidity, and completed 
in the winter of the same year. The dedicatory ser- 



IOO REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

mon was preached by Rev. John C. Guldin. The 
total cost of lot, building, etc., was $1734.21. 

Of those who started the church in 1837, but two 
remain — Mr. Samuel Rigg and Mr. Jacob S. Root, 
one of the carpenters who aided in building the first 
church. 

For some time after Rev. Guldin ceased his work 
here, the congregation was without any regular min- 
ister, being supplied by different men. Early in the 
forties Rev. E. D. Smith preached for the people. 
Being inclined toward Methodism and advocating the 
same, a division sprang up in the congregation, and 
each party made strenuous efforts to keep possession 
of the church. Up to this time the congregation had 
not been incorporated. The dissenting party seized 
upon this as their opportunity to gain possession, and 
at once set about securing a charter. But the Reform- 
ed people forestalled them in this by arriving in Ches- 
ter one day before their opponents, thus saving to the 
Reformed church a congregation which has proved 
itself a zealous and earnest people. The charter was 
granted on the 7th day of August, 1843. 

Those who were not satisfied with the Reformed 
mode of worship, took their departure, leaving but a 
half-dozen families to carry on the work. But the 
Lord was with the faithful few in Zion, and greatly 
blessed them. Shortly after this disturbance, the 
Methodists built a church on an eminence a short 
distance north of Shenkel's, and called it the Temple 



shenkel's church. 



101 



M. E. Church. At this time a brotherly feeling exists 
between the pastors and people of both churches. 

The following ministers, of whom little information 
can be found, supplied the pulpit until 1855: Revs. 
Jacob W. Hougen, Andrew S. Young, John S. Folk, 
W. R. Work and David Hefflefmger. 

On January 24, 1855, Rev. William Sorber was 
called to the pastorate of this charge, which then 
consisted of three churches, viz: Brownback's, Shen- 
kel's and St. Peter's. 

During the years 1866 and 1867, special meetings 
were held in the church, and many accessions were 
made. During the latter part of Rev. Sorber's minis- 
try here, it became evident that the work of looking 
after three churches extending over so large a territory, 
was too much for one man, and his health began to 
fail. The congregations then decided to secure an 
assistant for Mr. Sorber. His son, Rev. Geo. S. Sor- 
ber, now located in Watsontown, Pa., had then just 
completed his Theological studies at Ursinus College, 
and the congregations, thinking that no better person 
could be found, called him to become the assistant to 
his father in June, 1878. The last year of his life Mr. 
Sorber was unable to preach much. On December 7, 
1878, the Lord called him higher to receive his reward 
and the "well done" of his Master, whom he had 
served so long and faithfully. His ministry to this 
people continued through twenty-three years. Not 
only was he beloved by the members of his congrega- 



102 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



tions, but by his warm and genial character he in- 
gratiated himself in the hearts of every one with whom 
he came in contact. " Though dead, he yet speaketh " 
in the lives and characters he endeavored to mould 
into the image of his Lord; and in the judgment day 
many will rise up and call his name blessed. 

Rev. Geo. S. Sorber was called to the pastorate in 
January, 1879, anQl continued pastor of this charge until 
February, 1886. The old church, though hallowed 
by memories of the past, and precious to the hearts of 
the aged, had become antiquated, so that during Rev. 
Sorber's pastorate it was decided to enlarge and re- 
model it. In the months of July and August, 1884, 
the old building was torn down to the floor, and the 
work of rebuilding was at once begun. So rapid was 
the work, that .by September 30, 1884, the mem- 
bers of the congregation were ready to lay the corner- 
stone. Rev. Geo. S. Sorber was assisted on this occa- 
sion by Rev. L. K. Evans, of Trinity Reformed Church, 
Pottstown, who preached the sermon. By December 
21, the basement of the church was completed and 
dedicated with appropriate ceremonies. By the Spring 
of 1885, the auditorium was ready for occupancy, and 
was dedicated to the service of God on March 15, 
1885. Notwithstanding the fact that the day was dull 
and rainy, the church was filled with an interested and 
appreciative audience. The late Rev. J. H. A. Bom- 
berger, D. D., then president of Ursinus College, 
preached the dedicatory sermon from the text, Ezra 



shenkel's church. 



103 



6, 16. Revs. E. D. Wettach and John Landis also 
assisted at the service. 

The present structure is Gothic in style, and in size 
is fifty-four by forty-one and one-half feet, with a base- 
ment for the Sunday-school thirty-three by forty-one 
and one-half feet. The windows are of rolled cath- 
edral glass, the floor is carpeted, the pews cushioned, 
and the walls beautifully frescoed. The total cost of 
the building was about $3,300. Nearly all this sum 
was paid by the time of dedication. Three hundred 
dollars, however, remain, but the consistory is now 
making an effort to clear out this debt, and it is hoped 
that before another year has come this will be a thing 
of the past. 

On June 20, 1886, Rev. Jas. W. Meminger was 
ordained and installed pastor of this charge, but after 
a stay of little more than one year, he resigned to 
accept a call to St. Paul's, Lancaster, where he is now 
laboring with much success. 

In September, 1887, Rev. A. D. Wolfinger, then a 
student in Ursinus Theological Seminary, began to 
supply the congregation until November 20, 1887, 
when he was elected pastor, to begin his work upon 
the completion of his studies. On June 3, 1888, he 
was installed pastor of the charge in this church. The 
sermon was preached by Rev. E. D. Wettach. Dur- 
ing Rev. Wolfinger's pastorate, a movement was set 
on foot to divide the charge, as one man could not 
give proper attention to the spiritual needs of the 
people. Up to this time, preaching service was held 



104 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



only every other week. Finally, after much debate, 
Philadelphia Classis, at a special meeting held in Phil- 
adelphia, January 15, 1891, divided the charge, for the 
time leaving this church by itself. Rev. Wolfmger is 
now successfully laboring in Thornville, Ohio. 

St. Paul's Reformed Church, Birdsboro, was about 
to become vacant, and Philadelphia Classis petitioned 
Lebanon Classis to cede this church to them with the 
purpose of uniting it with Shenkel's, and thus form a 
self-sustaining charge. Lebanon Classis granted the 
request, but after much negotiation it was deemed 
inadvisable to unite the two churches, and St. Paul's 
church was returned to Lebanon Classis. Shenkel's 
was again left alone. The people of this church were 
growing despondent, and about ready to succumb to 
the inevitable. " It's an ill wind, however, that does 
not blow some one good.". The troubles of the con- 
gregation awakened the people, and they possessed 
their souls in patience and determined to succeed. 
About this time the present pastor, Rev. W. H. Stub- 
blebine began to supply the congregation, and finally, 
in July, a congregational meeting was held, and a 
unanimous vote was cast for Rev. W. H. Stubblebine. 
It was impossible, however, for the congregation to 
support a man themselves, and a petition was sent to 
Philadelphia Classis for sustentation. At a special 
meeting, classis did not see its way clear to grant the 
request, and made a second attempt to unite the church 
with St. Peter's (Warwick) but after much debate this was 
dropped as inadvisable. Finally, through the liberality 



shenkel's church. 



of an elder in Heidelberg church, Philadelphia, who 
promised to give $50 toward the first year's sustenta- 
tion, classis granted the request. This was good news 
to the members, and at once inspired them with new 
courage. Rev. W. H. Stubblebine accepted the call, 
and on Sabbath afternoon, August 2, 1891, was or- 
dained to the gospel ministry and installed as pastor 
of this congregation by Rev. Jas. I. Good, D. D., of 
Reading, and Rev. John Sechler, of Philadelphia. 

The first work that demanded instant attention was 
the thorough organization of the church forces. The 
consistory was increased from four to eight, and a set 
of By-Laws were adopted and printed in connection 
with the Constitution of the church. Services are now 
held every Sabbath, church prayer meeting is held 
every week, and an active Y. P. S. C. E. is held every 
Sabbath evening. 

Among other things that demanded immediate at- 
tention, was the Sunday-school. This department of 
the church had run down completely, and there was 
little prospect of building it up unless the Sunday- 
school room could be remodeled. The entire room 
was in a dilapidated condition. The officers and 
teachers of the school were organized into a permanent 
association, and they at once began to lay plans for 
the remodeling of the room. Money to the amount 
of $89 was collected by subscription to pay for new 
chairs. To secure sufficient funds to make the con- 
templated alteration, it was decided to hold an "Apron 
Bazaar" in Pottstown, on November 13 and 14, 1891. 



I06 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



The services of the Ursinus College Glee Club were 
called into requisition, and aided very much to make 
it a success. Nearly $150 were realized from the 
bazaar, which, with moneys realized from other sources, 
gave the association nearly $300 to expend in the work. 

As soon as the money was assured, work was begun 
and carried on until the whole room was completely 
transformed. The most gratifying thing about it all 
was the good will and earnestness that animated one 
and all. In union there is strength. 

The room was formally dedicated on Sunday Jan. 3, 
1892, by the pastor, with a sermon on Neh. iv, 6. 
The room is now beautiful and attractive and a hearty 
interest is manifest by all. 

For three weeks, beginning Jan. 11, 1892, special 
evangelistic services were held in this church. The 
pastor was assisted in these meetings on three nights 
by Rev. Dr. Good, Rev. Dr. Williard and Rev. Rufus 
Miller. A feeling of deep interest and solemnity was 
manifest in these meetings and the Holy Spirit was 
mightily at work in convicting sinners. The meetings 
concluded on Sunday, Jan. 31, with the Lord's Supper 
and the reception of new members. Twelve were added 
by profession of faith, one of whom was an old man 
82 years of age, w r ho thinks nothing of walking three 
miles to church. Two were added by renewal of pro- 
fession and three by letter, making in all seventeen. 

The past is encouraging, the present prosperous and 
the future full of bright hopes, which it is hoped will, 
under the blessing of God, become living realities. 



ST. JOHN'S REFORMED CHURCH. 



PHOENIXVILLE. PA. 



The history of this congregation dates from 1849. 
At that time many things favored the organization of a 
Reformed church in Phcenixville. Many Reformed 
people were then living in and around the borough. 
On May 14th, 1848, Rev. A. B. Shenkle, then pastor 
of East Vincent Reformed Church, began preaching 
in the Mennonite Church, corner of Church and Main 
streets, now occupied by the Central Lutheran Con- 
gregation. Afterward services were held in Temper- 
ance Hall. 

A congregation was organized in February, 1849, 
under the name and title of St. John's Reformed 
Church, Phcenixville, Pa. It was incorporated accord- 
ing to law May 6. 1849. At the first communion ser- 
vice held, there were thirty-five members in good and 
regular standing. 

In the year 1850 a church building was erected in 
the North ward, on corner of High and Marshall streets, 
where the congregation worshiped for eighteen years. 
Rev. A. B. Shenkle was pastor of the congregation 
during the greater part of this time. Rev. William 
Sorber, pastor of Brownback's Reformed Church, 



108 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



served the congregation for a time. Afterward Rev. 
Fulton became its pastor. Under his pastorate, how- 
ever, the congregation became divided and greatly 
weakened. Rev. Fulton and a portion of the congre- 
gation finally connected themselves with the Presby- 
terian church. 

Rev. A. B. Shenkle then again endeavored to keep 
the congregation together, but after a period of five 
years the congregation disbanded. 

An indebtedness of fourteen hundred dollars was 
resting on the church property at that time. The 
members of the congregation still interested in the 
church were few, and were unable to meet the payments, 
and so the church building was allowed to be sold- 
The building is now used as a dwelling. 

During fifteen or more years which followed the dis- 
banding of the congregation in the North ward, no 
services were held by the Reformed people in Phcenix- 
ville, although a number of members continued in the 
Reformed faith. 

All this time the town was steadily growing larger 
and Reformed people were moving into the borough 
from the surrounding country, and it was evident to 
those interested that there should be a Reformed con- 
gregation in such a town with so much Reformed ma- 
terial in and around it. To Mr. Franklin M. Yeager 
is due the starting of the new organization. He was 
a man thoroughly interested in the work of the Re- 
formed church, and loyal to her interests. He was 



ST. johx's church. 



109 



at that time a resident of the borough and a member 
of St. Vincent Reformed Church, East Vincent, Pa. 

In conferring with others concerning the project, he 
at first met with little or no encouragement. But not 
disheartened he sought the counsel and help of Rev. 
J. H. A. Bomberger, D. D., LL. D., President ofUrsi- 
nus College, Collegeville, Pa., who at once agreed to 
meet the Reformed people of Phcenixville and inquire 
into the possibility of such an enterprise. The day 
appointed for the meeting, January 13, 1882, proved to 
be a stormy day, and the meeting was postponed to 
the following Tuesday, January 17, 1882. At that 
time Dr. Bomberger preached to the people in the 
church formerly owned by the United Brethren Con- 
gregation, but lately sold to private individuals. After 
the service a committee was appointed to confer with 
the neighboring pastors concerning the re-organization 
of St. John's Reformed Congregation, of Phcenix- 
ville, Pa. 

On January 20, 1882, action was taken looking to 
the purchase of United Brethren Church on Gay street 
and books were prepared to solicit contributions. On 
April 27th, of the same year, it was decided to pur- 
chase the United Brethren Church from Theo. F. 
Hunter for the sum of thirty-seven hundred dollars. 
Z. Acker, Samuel Lloyd and John Hippie were ap- 
pointed a purchasing committee. On May 29th the 
committee reported that seven hundred dollars were 
subscribed toward the purchase of the property. A 



IIO REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



Sabbath School - was organized May 14, 1882, with 
Franklin M. Yeager as superintendent. About this 
time Rev. M. S. Rowland was secured to preach in the 
church until fuller organization could be effected. A. 
D. Hawke, John Hippie, Samuel Lloyd, David Buck- 
waiter, Mahlon Miller, Z. Acker and Frank M. Yeager 
were elected trustees, and a committee was appointed 
to attend Philadelphia Classis, and ask for the re-organ- 
ization of the Phcenixville congregation. Philadelphia 
Classis at the annual meeting granted the request 
and appointed Revs. J. H. A. Bomberger, D. D., D. W. 
Ebert and M. S. Rowland the committee on reorgan- 
ization. The committee met in Phcenixville on June 
7, 1882, and completed the organization with twenty 
communicant members. At the same time A. D. 
Hawke, F, M. Yeager and Z. Acker were elected 
Elders and I. R. Francis, John Miller and Robert John- 
son were elected Deacons of the congregation. 

On June 18, 1882, the building was dedicated as a 
Reformed church to the worship of God. Rev. James 
I. Good, D. D., of Philadelphia, preached the dedicat- 
ory sermon. Thus the revived congregation with a 
small though united and determined membership, 
began under favoring circumstances a new course with 
a flattering promise of a successful future. Rev. M. 
S. Rowland continued to serve the congregation until 
November, 1882. 

Rev. S. P. Mauger, pastor of St. Vincent and St. 
Peter's, Pikeland, charge, was then appointed to supply 



st. johx's church. 



the pulpit on Sabbath evenings, while Rev. J. B. Knipe 
was appointed to preach on Sabbath mornings when- 
ever his health would permit. 

By a reconstruction of neighboring charges in the 
Spring of 1886, St. John's Reformed Church of Phce- 
riixville and St. Peter's church of Pikeland, were con- 
stituted a pastoral charge, with Rev. S. P. Mauger as 
its pastor. From that time until October 1, 1888, 
Rev. Mauger served the charge acceptably and suc- 
cessfully. Through his untiring zeal and devotion, a 
good work was accomplished and the congregation 
was placed on a substantial basis. One thousand dol- 
lars of the indebtedness was paid and the church pro- 
perty improved. Forty-nine members were added to 
the membership. Rev. Mauger left the work in a 
prosperous condition. 

Rev. James R. Lewis served the charge from No- 
vember, 1888, until June, 1889. He was elected pas- 
tor but was not installed. During that time, fourteen 
were added to the membership of the church, and 
successful work was accomplished in the interest of 
the conoreo;ation. 

Rev. F. C. Yost, the present pastor, took charge of 
the congregation November 1, 1889. Through a re- 
construction of neighboring charges by action of Phil- 
adelphia Classis, this congregation became a separate 
pastoral charge on November 1, 1890, and has since 
then received the exclusive attention and work of the 
pastor. The congregation has steadily increased in 



I 12 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



membership and activity. During the two years of 
Rev. Yost's pastorate, seventy-six were added to the 
church, making the membership at present one hun- 
dred and thirty-one. 

The Sabbath-school is well equipped with good 
active officers and teachers, and has an enrollment of 
over two hundred scholars. One thousand dollars 
have been paid on the indebtedness, leaving a com- 
paratively small amount yet to be provided for. A 
number of important improvements in and about the 
church have been made at an expense of three hun- 
dred and fifty dollars. The church property at present 
is worth fully seven thousand dollars. 

The church has been growing spiritually as well as 
numerically and financially. A vigorous Women's 
Missionary Society is maintained. A Young People's 
Society of Christian Endeavor is doing an excellent 
work among the young people, and is exerting a good 
influence upon the entire congregation. The future 
of the congregation is full of promise, for with God's 
blessing it must grow in strength and usefulness. 




FIRST REFORMED CHURCH, SPRING CITY, PA. 



THE FIRST REFORMED CHURCH. 



SPRING CITY. 



The First Reformed Church of Spring City is a fact 
and factor. In the ten years of its existence, it has 
grown from a comparatively small body into a large 
and aggressive organization. Where ten years ago 
was found a lot given over to weeds and tares, there 
is to-day a beautiful and substantial house of worship. 
Where ten years ago the Reformed people were scat- 
tered far and wide, they are to-day united in one body 
of earnest, faithful workers. The stream of Christian 
influence, which is ever-widening and deepening, has 
had its source. The effect, manifest in the interest 
and activity of the members, has had a cause. What 
is it? 

Primarily, we should say the source was the hearts 
and minds of those who formed the nucleus from 
which has come the present body; those who con- 
ceived the idea and labored for its realization. And 
the cause was a deeply felt need of a more united 
effort, of more frequent services and closer church 
relations. When, in 1881, Rev. D. W. Ebbert was 
called to the pastorate of the East Vincent charge, the 
nearest point for the Reformed people to worship was 



114 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

two miles distant. Having taken up his residence in 
Spring City, he was soon made to realize the fact, 
through the encouragement of those who had impor- 
tuned his predecessor to organize a congregation, 
that there was an excellent opening to begin a good 
work. The field was white to harvesting. That such 
was the case is readily learned from the fact that when, 
on June 15, 1881, a Sunday-school was organized, it 
opened with thirty members. In connection with the 
starting of the school, Rev. Ebbert began to preach 
regularly every Sunday evening in Mechanics' Hall. 

The interest, because of the great demand for a 
Reformed church, has from the very outset been deep 
and lasting. This bears its own testimony to the 
statement that all that was needed in the early days 
was some one to lead. God smiled with favor upon 
all efforts. In the words of one who has watched 
with loving interest the growth of the congregation — 
" When things looked dark, progress was discouraging, 
and all avenues apparently closed, God, just at the 
most opportune time, raised up friends and enabled us 
to solve the difficult problems." It must not be in- 
ferred from this that its history is a history of severe 
trials, of hard struggles, of being crushed by succes- 
sive defeats. It is rather the history of a man whose 
every step has been one of progress, who perhaps 
momentarily has faced some great difficulty, but by 
concentration of thought and energy has made it 
yield him success. In the history of its career, we 



FIRST REFORMED CHURCH. 



find they all worked together in sweet accord. The 
numbers in school and public services soon began to 
increase, and a great impetus was given to the new 
movement. Through the efforts of Miss Mary Kimes 
and the generosity of Mr. O. B. Keeley, who, though 
not a member of the church, was deeply interested in 
the work, an organ was placed at the service of school 
and church. 

A second step of importance was taken in March, 
1882. Believing that the time had arrived for more 
definite action looking toward a regular organization, 
a committee consisting of Messrs. Jos. Keeley, Thomas 
Francis, Francis Latschar, Henry Francis and Henry J. 
Diehl was appointed to confer with the East Vincent 
congregation on the subject of forming a charge. The 
result of the conference was the granting of thirty let- 
ters of dismissal to members of this church, for the 
purpose of founding a new congregation in Spring 
City. Rev. Ebbert and Elder Alexander Hoffman 
were empowered by the Philadelphia Classis to effect 
an organization, which was accomplished April 25, 
1882, when thirty members of the "mother church" 
and seventeen others, forty-seven in all, were admitted 
to full membership. At a congregational meeting 
held the same day, the newly formed church proceed- 
ed to elect its officers. Messrs. C. S. Francis, Davis 
Kimes and George Snyder were made elders, and 
Messrs. Henry Francis, James Rogers and Andrew 
McMichael were made deacons. Of this number, Mr. 



I 1 6 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

Henry Francis has served as an active member of the 
consistory, either in the capacity of deacon or elder, 
from its foundation. Messrs. C. S. Francis and Geo. 
Snyder have been made honorary members. Messrs. 
James Rogers and Andrew McMichael have been 
succeeded by others, and of the original number, one, 
Mr. Davis Kimes, has gone to his reward. 

The newly constituted charge immediately began 
the work of providing a suitable home for their pastor. 
Through the kindness and liberality of Mr. Henry 
Francis, a lot was provided for this purpose and neces- 
sary steps taken to erect a building. In a short time 
a large and substantial house was placed at the ser- 
vice of Rev. Ebbert. Services were still conducted at 
the hall, with the growing conviction, however, that 
larger and more commodious quarters must be pro- 
vided for the growing interest. The question began 
to press hard, and the subject of a church home de- 
manded serious consideration. At this juncture, Mrs. 
Mary E. Keeley, who has always had the interests of 
the cause at heart, came forward with the proposition 
that she would give $1000 on condition that two others 
pledge themselves for like sums. Mr. Jos. Keeley and 
Mr. Henry Francis accepted the terms and subscribed 
equal amounts. A fund was thus started, and the 
prospects were so encouraging that a committee was 
appointed to procure a site. This having been attend- 
ed to, and the lot upon which the building now stands 
having been secured for $1000, a second committee 



FIRST REFORMED CHURCH. 



117 



was appointed to have plans drafted for the proposed 
building. Before these plans were presented for con- 
sideration, Rev. Ebbert sailed for Europe, to be gone 
three months. Shortly after his departure, the com- 
mittee reported and the plans presented by Mr. Jos. 
Keeley were adopted. Messrs. Jos. Keeley, Henry 
Francis and George Snyder composed the building 
committee and were given instructions to carry out the 
proposed plans. The work was under the personal 
over-sight and superintendency of Mr. Jos. Keeley. 

There was no time lost in setting the project in 
motion, and by June 21, 1884, everything was in read- 
iness for the laying of the corner-stone. In the absence 
of the pastor, who was still abroad, Rev. D. E. Klopp, 
D. D., and Rev. S. P. Mauger, officiated at the cere- 
mony. The building was now rapidly pushed forward. 
About July 15 Rev. Ebbert, after an absence of three 
months, during which time most of the funds were 
collected, the plans adopted, the work begun and 
corner-stone laid, returned to resume his pastoral re- 
lations. After seven months more of preaching in the 
hall, the congregation, amid much rejoicing, moved 
from their close and cramped quarters to the lecture 
room of the new building. Here the first services 
were held on Christmas day, 1884. The work of 
completing the edifice was carried forward until March, 
1885, when the committee was permitted to render a 
report of their labors and turn over the result of their 
efforts to a waiting congregation. At this meeting it 



I I 8 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



was shown that a debt of $3455.73 rested on the 
church. Desirous of dedicating the edifice free of all 
debt, an effort was made to secure the required sum. 
A subscription list was opened, when Mr. Keeley 
agreed to double his original sum on condition that 
the entire debt be cancelled in a week. Mr. Henry 
Francis, Mrs. Mary E. Keeley and Mrs. Anna Keeley 
raised another $1000. At a congregational meeting 
held for the purpose of soliciting funds, the sum was 
raised. Preparations were now made for the dedicat- 
ory services. April 2, 1885, was the day set apart for 
this most interesting and solemn ceremony. Dr. J. 
H. A. Bomberger, President of Ursinus College, preach- 
ed a characteristic sermon on the theme, " Dedication 
an Occasion for Rejoicing." The other pastors pres- 
ent at this service were D. E. Klopp, D. D., Revs. H. 
T. Spangler, S. P. Mauger, E. D. Wettach, G. S. Sor- 
ber, B. F. Davis, L. K. Evans, and Rev. Ebbert. The 
Lutheran church was represented by Rev J. Neff, and 
the Baptist by Rev. Lyons. At the communion sea- 
son on Easter Sunday following, thirty-one new names 
were added to the roll, making the total membership 
at that time ninety-five. 

The First Reformed Church stands one-half block 
west of Main, on Chestnut street. It occupies the 
centre of a lot, 80 by no feet, the building itself being 
41 by 74 feet. Externally, it is neat and attractive. 
Its appearance does not indicate thoughtless extrava- 
gance on the one hand, nor indifferent economy on 



FIRST REFORMED CHURCH. 



II 9 



the other. Built of light brown stone, with gray stone 
corners and trimmings of gothic architecture, it com- 
bines beauty with simplicity, the ornamental with the 
useful, reflecting credit alike on the judgment of the 
committee and the taste of the concrreo-ation. The first 
impression gained on viewing the edifice prepares one 
for the internal arrangement. Everything harmonizes. 
Entering the first floor by the side entrance, one is 
ushered into a well-proportioned and comfortably 
sized lecture room. Here are held the Sunday-school 
and mid-week services. On the same floor, but sepa- 
rated from it by sliding windows, are a parlor and 
library room, and the infant department. The main 
and infant rooms are furnished with settees of an im- 
proved style, which aid much in making the rooms 
inviting. Passing up a short- flight of stairs from the 
infant room, you stand in the vestibule which is entered 
from without by a flight of granite steps. The floor 
of the main room is reached by a short stairway. 
Opening the swinging doors and looking up the main 
aisle, one is impressed with the cheerfulness of the 
room, the blending of the colors from the rolled cath- 
edral glass windows having a pleasing effect. At 
night the room is lighted with gas, through two chan- 
deliers and thirteen side lights. Assembly chairs, 
seating three hundred; a fine organ, the gift of Mrs. 
Anna Keeley ; and the pulpit and altar furniture, the 
gift of Mrs. Mary E. Keeley, complete the furnishing 
of the auditorium. The frescoing is artistic, the early 
morning scene being especially worthy of mention. 



120 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



Rev. Ebbert ministered to the flock with all fidelity 
until July, 1887. Feeling that his work was accom- 
plished, and believing himself called to a new field of 
missionary enterprise, he resigned his charge to accept 
a call to Dayton. This was a severe blow. The new 
congregation was but fairly launched in active church 
work, and was in need of one to stand at the head as 
leader. But the cause of the Lord was not to suffer, 
the interest be abated, nor the zeal languish. After 
having been without a pastor for four months, during 
which time the pulpit was supplied by students from 
Ursinus Seminary and possible candidates, Rev. L. G. 
Kremer was called December 5, 1887, and took up 
his labors January 1, 1888, his pastorate covering a 
period of two years and a half. 

During the ministry of Rev. Kremer, final action 
was taken to become a separate charge. In March, 
1890, a set of resolutions drafted and adopted by the 
consistory, favoring a dissolution of the relations exist- 
ing between the East Vincent and Spring City con- 
gregations, was presented to that body for considera- 
tion, when it was decided to petition classis for a 
division. At the annual meeting, held May 15, 1890, 
this petition was granted, and Spring City was consti- 
tuted a pastoral charge, to take effect January 1, 1891. 
Through the death of Rev. Kremer, however, which 
occurred in August, it was deemed advisable to make 
the change in October rather than wait until the New 
Year. This was accomplished. The old parsonage 
was sold, all accounts closed, and the congregation 



FIRST REFORMED CHURCH. 



121 



began life and work as a self-supporting and inde- 
pendent body. 

A move was now made to secure the regular ser- 
vices of a pastor, with the result that in January, 1 89 1 , a 
call was given to Licentiate Calvin Derr, then a student 
in Yale Seminary. This having been accepted, the 
congregation once again felt settled, and began work 
with renewed zeal. Though practically without the 
leadership of a pastor, and with the new experience of 
being independent, the work was not suffered to go 
down, nor the interest to die out. During the eight 
months intervening between the death of Rev. Kremer 
and the entering upon his duties of the present pastor, 
services were conducted regularly twice a day. The 
Sunday-school was kept in an excellent condition, the 
mid-week services held without interruption, and a 
Christian Endeavor Society organized. The only ex- 
planation for such marked activity and such unusual 
zeal is found in the fact that the congregation was of 
one mind and one heart. Having completed the 
arrangements for a leader and pastor, the subject of 
erecting a suitable house was taken up for considera- 
tion. The movement was started by Mr. Henry Fran- 
cis, who headed the subscription list with $300. In a 
short time the amount was raised, plans secured, con- 
tract awarded, and the work begun, a lot 80 by no 
feet having been presented for the purpose by Mrs. 
Anna Keeley. 

Such is the all too brief history of ten years of church 
work and labor for the Master. The sketch is neces- 



122 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



sarily incomplete, though, we trust, not inaccurate, 
nor lacking in the main points. Our task of present- 
ing anything like a consecutive growth and develop- 
ment was made the more arduous because of the 
absence of historical material. The most available 
data was the minute book and some facts published at 
the time of dedication. From these sources we have 
gleaned the above history. 

One word in closing. The present pastor assumed 
the duties and responsibilities of his position immedi- 
ately on leaving the seminary. He came to minister 
to a people who had been blessed with talented, clear- 
sighted, and consecrated servants of the Master.' His 
predecessors labored faithfully and earnestly, and their 
labors were crowned with success. Ordained and 
installed June 7, 1891, he began his ministry amid 
many misgivings and great encouragement. In the 
year which has come and gone, pastor and people 
labored together, and we trust with no little pleasure 
and profit. The existing relations are warm and ten- 
der. There is a reciprocal feeling of confidence and 
good will which seems to indicate a strengthening of 
ties and a deepening of interest. The present outlook 
is bright and hopeful, and the present condition 
healthy and encouraging. 



"FAIRVIEW." 

THE PARSONAGE OF THE FIRST REFORMED CHURCH, 



" Fairview," the name given to the new parsonage, 
is surely not a misnomer. The view which it com- 
mands can, for beauty and grandeur of scenery, 
scarcely be surpassed in the Schuylkill valley. The 
building itself is of the cottage style. Some idea of 
its external appearance may be gained from the ac- 
companying cut. Internally, the arrangements are 
complete, and are a model for the combination of the 
comfortable and the useful. Entering from the front, 
you find yourself in a large open hall-way, finished in 
oak. A door to the right admits you into a spacious 
parlor, which connects by folding doors with the sit- 
ting-room, which is of comfortable size with bay win- 
dow and side entrance. The dining-room on the west 
side is large and well lighted, and is connected with 
the sitting-room by means of sliding doors. These, 
with a well arranged kitchen provided with range and 
hot and cold water attachments, complete the first 
floor. The second floor contains two bed-rooms, study 
on the east side, a sewing-room, storage-room, and a 



124 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



bath-room complete in its arrangements. There are 
three sleeping- apartments on the third floor. The 
cost of the building was $3300. Private gifts from 
individual members have, however, enhanced the value 
of the property. 




SOME FORMER PASTORS OF THE REFORMED 
CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



The following series of epitomized sketches embraces 
only those ministers (with one exception) who have 
labored as pastors of the Reformed church in Chester 
county since 1850. 

Derr, Calvin U. O. Born in Tamaqua, Pa., and 
spent early life in the coal regions and at Slatington, 
Pa. Attended the high school at the latter place for 
a number of years. Moved to Reading in 1881, and 
spent three years as secretary in the service of the 
Reading Hardware Company. Entered Ursinus Col- 
lege in 1884, and graduated class of '88. Finished a 
three years' theological course in Yale Divinity School, 
and graduated with the degree of B. D. in May, 1 891 . 
Ordained and installed into the pastorate of the First 
Reformed Church, Spring City, Pa., June 7, 1891, 
where he continues his ministry at this time. 

Ebbert, D. VV. Only son of Jacob and Elizabeth 
Ebbert, born at Everett, Bedford county, Pa., June 1 1, 
1853. The public schools of his native town, the 
Collegiate Institute at Martinsburg, Pa., and private 
instruction in the Classics by Prof. J. W. Hughes, A. 



126 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

M., prepared him for admission into the junior class 
of Ursinus College, where he graduated in 1875. 
Studied Theology at the same institution, and in May, 
1876, was licensed to preach the gospel by Philadel- 
phia Classis. Ordained and installed as pastor of the 
Reformed Church at Shippensburg, Pa., November 18, 
1876. Became pastor of East Vincent Reformed 
Church in Chester county, May 1, 1881. Organized 
the First Reformed Church, Spring City, of which he 
became pastor in August, 1877. Pastor of Trinity 
Reformed Church, Dayton, O., 1 877-1 890. Of St. 
John's Reformed Church, Milton, Pa., January, 1890, 
to the present time. Appointed by synod as one of 
the editors of Sunday-school Lessons Helps for the 
Reformed church, September, 1888. 

Fisher, Isaac Calvin. Born near Mt. ^Etna, Berks 
county, Pa., October 16, 1867. Attended the public 
schools of his native county, Oley Academy, and the 
K. S. N. S., Kutztown, Pa. Taught in the public 
schools of his native county, 1 882-1 883. Studied at 
Palatinate College, Myerstown, Pa., 1 884 to 1 886. En- 
tered the freshman class at Ursinus College, April, 1 886, 
and graduated from the classical course of said insti- 
tution, June, 1889, and from the theological depart- 
ment in May, 1891. During his last year in the semi- 
nary, he received a unanimous call to the pastorate of 
East Vincent — Pikeland — charge, where he was ordain- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



127 



ed and installed, June 11, 1891, by a committee of 
Philadelphia Classis, consisting of Revs. J. H. Sechler, 
F. C. Yost and C. B. Alspach. 

* : 3 

Fluck, J. Lewis. Born near Church Hill, Pa., Sep- 
tember 17, 1864. Early life spent on a farm. Appren- 
ticed to learn the shoemaker's trade from 1877 to 1879. 
Served full apprenticeship in the milling business, and 
subsequently followed steam engineering until Janu- 
ary 7, 1882, when he entered the academic department 
of Ursinus College. Entered college in the fall of 1884, 
and graduated with the class of '88. Student at Yale 
Divinity School, New Haven, Conn., '88 to '89. At 
Union Theological Seminary, New York, '89 to '90. 
Labored as a missionary in South Dakota during the 
Summer of '90, and graduated from Ursinus Theologi- 
cal Seminary with the degree of B. D., '91. Received 
a unanimous call to the pastorate of St. Matthew's 
charge,. May 12, '91. Was ordained and installed 
June 16, '91, where he continues his ministry to this 
time. 

* * 

Guldin, John C, D. D. Born in Exeter township, 
Berks county, Pa., August, 1799. Early education, 
such as the country schools then afforded. Training 
for the ministry under the direction of Rev. F. L. Her- 
man for a period of five years. Licensed and ordained 
to preach the gospel September 28, 1820, by the synod 



128 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

of the German Reformed church, then in session at 
-Hagerstown, Md. Installed as pastor of Trappe, East 
Vincent and Brownback's congregations about the 
same time. Member of the "Independent Synod" 
from 1822 to 1836. Organized Shenkel's Reformed 
Church, 1836. Served St. Matthew's Reformed 
Church, 1833 to 1835. Accepted a call to Grindstone 
Hill charge, Franklin county, 1 841 . Was installed as 
pastor of the German Evangelical Church, New York 
city, 1842. Published a volume of practical sermons, 
and arranged a German hymn-book, which was ap- 
proved by the authorities of the church ; also com- 
pleted a smaller collection of German hymns just 
before his death. Died, February 18, 1863. A man 
of great power, of earnest, though (in his earlier years) 
mistaken zeal, who often stood before his people, a 
weeping prophet, his tears mingling with his entreaties. 
His death was the grand finale of an earnest and de- 
voted life. 

Hilbish, Henry. Born at Freeburg, Snyder county, 
Pa., September 13, 1836, and is of German descent. 
Educated at Freeburg Academy, with the exception 
of his theological training, which he received from 
private tutors. Ordained to the gospel ministry at 
the age of twenty-one years. First twenty years of 
his ministry principally spent in Ohio and Illinois. 
Accepted a call from the Manhime charge, York 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



129 



county, Pa., in the Fall of 1880, locating at Hanover, 
Pa. Pastor of the Second Reformed Church at Han- 
over from January, 1884, until January 1, 1889. Ac- 
cepted a call to the Reformed church at Myerstown, 
where he labored for two years until 1891. At this 
time a call was extended to him from Brownback's 
charge, Chester county, which was accepted. Here 
he continues his ministry at this date. 

Knipe, Jesse B. Son of Frederick and Margaret 
Knipe, born near North Wales, Pa., September 12, 
1804. Baptized June 20, 1805. Confirmed as a mem- 
ber of the Reformed church, April, 1827. His early 
educational training was such as the ordinary public 
schools afforded. His theological training was under 
the supervision and instruction of the sainted Rev. 
Geo. Wack. Preached his first sermon in Bcehm's 
Reformed Church, June 10, 1827, while still a student. 
Licensed and ordained to the gospel ministry, Sep- 
tember 30, 1830. Accepted a call from the Pikeland 
congregation, where he was installed as pastor at the 
same time. Continued his ministry here until Janu- 
ary 16, 1 88 1. Organized St. Paul's, Uwchlan, in 1838, 
and served it for about fifty years. Organized St. 
Matthew's, West Vincent, 1833. Beginning with 1850, 
he served St. Matthew's, West Vincent, with certain 
interruptions, for about twenty-five years. St. Vin- 
cent, also, was served by him as supply for about the 



I 30 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

same length of time. Relinquished the active pastor- 
ate of his first and only charge in 1881, and performed 
his last public ministrations in St. John's Reformed 
Church, Phcenixvilie, December 23, 1883. Died June 
18, 1884, and was buried in Pikeland Reformed ceme- 
tery. Father Knipe, like Goldsmith's Village Parson, 
was a man "to all the country dear." He was simple- 
hearted, pure and unaffected — a veritable child of 
nature. Without intermission, in season and out of 
season, he preached the Word of Life, faithfully and 
earnestly, to thousands of his fellow men, during these 
stirring years of Christian activity. A man of peace, 
simple, quiet, and unostentatious in his habits, whom 
the scoffer respected and the saint adored. His name 
is still a household word in hundreds of Christian 
homes, and his influence will continue to bless genera- 
tions yet unborn. 

Kremer, Leighton G. Son of Rev. F. W. Kremei 1 , 
D. D. (deceased). Born at Lebanon, Pa., January 13, 
1852. Graduted from Ursinus College, class of '75, 
and from Union Theological Seminary, New York, in 
'77. Assisted his father in Lebanon one year. Ac- 
cepted a call to the Second Reformed Church, Hagers- 
town, Md., where he labored until 1887. Accepted a 
call to East Vincent and Spring City charge, January 
1, 1888, where he labored up to the time of his death, 
August 25, 1890. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



Mauger, Silas P. Born near Basil, Fairfield county, 
Ohio, July 4, 1847. Attended the common and se- 
lect schools of the community until he was 19 years 
of age. Received into church fellowship at Basil, O., 
September, 1866. Entered preparatory department 
of Heidelberg University, Tiffin, O., at the age of 19, 
and graduated in the classical course, June, 1872. 
Graduated from Theological Seminary of the same 
institution, April, 1874. Received a call from the 
Canal Winchester, Ohio, charge, where he was or- 
dained and installed as pastor, April 30, 1874. Pas- 
torate here continued until April 30, 1882. Accepted 
a call and was installed into the Pikeland and St. Vin- 
cent charge, Sunday, November 12, 1882. Preached 
as supply for St. John's, Phcenixville, beginning De- 
cember 3, 1882. Afterwards served the reconstructed 
Phcenixville and Pikeland charge until September 1, 
1888, when he resigned to accept a call from the Mt. 
Bethel charge, Northampton county, where he is at 
present very acceptably serving two congregations. 

Meminger, J. W. Born near Ickesburg, Perry 
county, Pa., November 9, 1859. Obtained his early 
education in the public schools and Bloomfield Acad- 
emy. Began teaching in the public schools at the age 
of 17. Prepared for college under Prof. J. J. Paterson 
in the Tuscarora Academy. Graduated from Ursinus 
College, class of '84, and two years later from the 



132 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

Theological Seminary at the same place. Also grad- 
uated from the National School of Oratory, Philadel- 
phia, '86. Received a call from Brownback's charge, 
Chester county, where he was ordained and installed, 
June 20, 1886. On January 5, 1887, received a call 
to St. Paul's, Lancaster, which he declined. The call 
was subsequently renewed and he accepted. Entered 
upon his work there, July, 1887, and is still laboring 
in this field with great success and general satisfaction. 

* * 

Mertz, J. A. Son of Peter and Susanna Mertz, 
born at Freeburg, Snyder county, Pa., May 26, 1856. 
Early education was received in the Freeburg Acad- 
emy. At the age of 15 years, he began to teach in 
the public schools of his native state, and continued 
for eight years. Entered Franklin and Marshall Col- 
lege as a freshman in the fall of 1879. In the follow- 
ing Spring, continued the classical course in Heidel- 
berg College, from which he graduated in 1883. En- 
tered the theological department of Ursinus College, 
from which he graduated in 1887. Ordained and 
installed as pastor of St. Vincent- Linfield charge, June 
12, 1887, where he is still laboring among an earnest 
and devoted people. 



Rowland, Maxwell S. Pastor of St. Matthew's 
and East Vincent Reformed Churches, 1 869-1 881. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



133 



Now pastor of the Presbyterian church, Whitesville, 
N. J. 

* * 

Shenkle, A. B. Son of Samuel and Mary Shenkle. 
Born at Unoinville, Berks county, March 27, 181 5. 
Baptized in the Episcopalian church at Douglassville, 
Pa. Moved to East Vincent, on the farm now owned 
by William Latshaw, 1832. Was converted under the 
influence of the sermon preached by Rev. John C. 
Guldin from the steps of the East Vincent Reformed 
Church. The period of the great religious awakening 
in 1835 fomented so much opposition that the doors 
of the church were locked against pastor Guldin. In 
1836, A. B. Shenkle united with the East Vincent 
Reformed Church. About this time he felt himself 
called to the ministry. Through the Rev. J. C. Gul- 
din, then located in Franklin county, a way was open- 
ed for him to enter Marshall College at Mercersburg, 
where he remained from 1841 to 1847. Called to the 
pastorate of East Vincent and Trappe Reformed 
Churches in the Fall of 1847. Served the former 
until October, 1868, and the latter until April, 1867. 
Also served St. John's, Phoenixville, for a number of 
years, beginning with 1848. Accepted a call to the 
Millersville charge, Lancaster county, Pa., in 1869, 
which he served over ten years. Took charge of the 
Willow Street Reformed Church in 1877, which he 
served in connection with the Maytown congregation 
until 1883. In 1885, Willow Street was constituted a 



134 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

charge by itself. This he served until March, 1887. 
Since July 6, 1 891, he is pastor of the Marietta charge, 
Lancaster county, preaching morning and evening. 
Father Shenkle is now an aged and infirm man. He 
has done a great work for the church and for the Mas- 
ter. That he hath in earlier years repeatedly encount- 
ered opposition, is only saying that he hath trod the 
path and endured the hardships which all good and 
positive men must expect to encounter. 

Sorber, William. Born at Flourtown, Montgom- 
ery county, Pa., October 4, 1826. Pursued a course 
of classical and Theological study under the direction 
of Rev. Jacob Helffenstein, then pastor of Market 
Square Reformed Church, Germantown. Was licens- 
ed by Philadelphia Classis to preach the Gospel in the 
Spring of 1852. Ordained to the work of the ministry 
and installed as pastor of the Davidson charge, David- 
son county, North Carolina, in the Spring of 1853. 
Remained in this charge two years, after which he 
removed North and accepted a call to Brownback's 
charge, Chester county, Pa., where he commenced his 
labors, June 24, 1855. His ministry continued until 
the time of his death, December 7, 1878, a period 
covering a little more than twenty-three years. Rev. 
Sorber was to Brownback's charge what Father Knipe 
was to Pikeland charge and other congregations which 
he served during his long-continued ministry — an ac- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



135 



ceptable preacher, an excellent pastor, a devoted Christ- 
ian. Through his indefatigable zeal, the scattered and 
discouraged membership of Brownback's charge was 
speedily united, and enthused with a common interest 
in the Lord's work. Many recruits were gathered 
from the outside into the service of Christ, so that 
this pastorate became the largest and most fruitful in 
upper Chester county. He lies buried in the ceme- 
tery adjoining Brownback's church, where a beautiful 
monument has been erected to his memory by a grate- 
ful and loving people. 

Sorber, George S. Born at Springfield, Mont- 
gomery county, Pa., June 1, 1856. Baptized by the 
Rev. A. B. Shenkel, and received into the commun- 
ion of Brownback's Church, April, 1870. Graduated 
from Ursinus College, class '76, and from the Semi- 
nary at the same place in 1878. Special call from 
Brownback's congregation, to serve in the capacity of 
assistant to his father, was accepted the same year. 
Ordained to the sacred office of the ministry October 
12, 1878. Called to fill the office of pastor, left vacant 
through the death of his father, January 1, 1879. In- 
stalled into the pastorate July 5, 1879. Labored in 
this charge with much success and the united support 
of his people until February 1, 1886, when he resigned 
to accept an urgent call to Wetsontown, Pa., at which 
place he is still located, among an earnest and appre- 
ciative people. 



I36 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

Staumbaugh, L. Dent. Born at Smith's Station, 
Pa., January 1, 1851, and is of Dutch (Holland) an- 
cestry. Attended the public schools, State Normal 
School at Millersville, and afterwards taught three 
years. Entered Ursinus College and Seminary Sep- 
tember, 1875. Took a partial college and full semi- 
nary course, graduating in the spring of 1878. Or- 
dained and installed as pastor of St. Matthew's Re- 
formed Church, Chester county, June, 1879, and con- 
tinued his ministry here for a period of four and one- 
half years. Served as supply pastor for St. Paul's 
Reformed Church, Uwchlan, for about eight months. 
On February 1, 1884, he commenced his pastorate in 
the Wolmesdorf charge, composed of four congrega- 
tions, where he has been laboring successfully for 
over eight years. 

Stubblebine, William H. Born in Philadelphia, 
December 7, 1867. Attended the public schools 
until fourteen years of age. Spent three years in 
business. Was received in Heidelberg Reformed 
Church, 1883. In the fall of the same year became 
a student in the private school of George Eastburn, 
Philadelphia, to prepare for college. Studied two 
years in the University of Pennsylvania, and gradu- 
ated from Ursinus College in 1889. Spent the follow- 
ing year at Union Theological Seminary, New York, 
and returning again to Ursinus Seminary, graduated 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



137 



from there in 1891. Unanimously called to Shenkel's 
Reformed Church, where he was ordained and in- 
stalled as pastor, August 2, 1892. 

* * 

Thompson, A. R. Born at Clover Creek, Pa., Feb- 
ruary 10, 1 85 1. Early life spent on the farm, teach- 
ing public school, and in the printing office. Edu- 
cated at Juniata Collegiate Institute and Ursinus 
College, graduating from the Theological Seminary 
of the same institution in 1879. Ordained and in- 
stalled as pastor of the Hummelstown, Pa., charge, 
which he served from 1879 to 1881. Pastor of St. 
Paul's Reformed Church, Chester county, 1881 to 
1883; of Mt. Bethel, Northampton county, 1883 to 
1888; of Rockingham charge, Va., from 1888 to the 
present time. 

* * 

Wettach, E. D. Born in Green township, Sum- 
mit county, Ohio, May 5, 1852, and is of Swiss 
parentage. Attended the village school until he was 
fifteen years of age. Spent three years in business at 
Akron, O. Entered the Academy 1870, and .gradu- 
ated from Heidelberg College, Tiffin, O., 1875, and 
from the Theological Seminary at the same place in 
1877. Ordained and installed as pastor of the Sul- 
phur Springs, Ohio, charge, July, 1877. Accepted 
a call from the Reedsburg, Ohio, charge, July, 1879, 



I38 REFORMED CHURCHES IN CHESTER COUNTY. 

and continued his ministry here until February, 1884. 
Accepted a call from the St. Matthew's charge, 
Chester county, Pa., and was installed June, 1884. 
Resigned the pastorate of this charge October, 1 889, 
and accepted a call from General Synod's Board to 
Trinity Reformed Mission, Akron, O., where he is 
now laboring with marked success. 

* * 

Wolfinger, A. D. Born at Nockamixon, Bucks 
county, Pa., March 14, 1864. United with the Re- 
formed church of that place in December, 1880. Re- 
ceived his preliminary education in the schools of his 
native place, the high school of Sellersville, and the 
State Normal School at West Chester. Desiring a 
more thorough preparation for the study of Theology, 
he entered upon a course of study in Ursinus College, 
which he completed in the Spring of 1886. Graduated 
from Theological Seminary at the same place in May, 
1888. Received a call from Brownback's charge, 
Chester county, where he was ordained and installed 
as pastor, June 3, 1888. Work here characterized by 
great zeal and earnestness to reach the unsaved. Ac- 
cepted a call to the Thornville charge, Ohio, where he 
is laboring among a people by whom he is much 
esteemed and beloved. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



139 



Yost, F. C. Son of Daniel and Sarah L. Yost. 
Born at Shamokin, August 6, 1853. Attended the 
schools of his native place during his early years. 
Graduated in the Classical course of Ursinus College, 
class of 1 876. Studied Theology at the same institu- 
tion. Examined and licensed to preach the Gospel 
by East Susquehana Classis at McEwensville, Pa., 
May, 1 877. Ordained and installed as pastor of the 
Thornville, O., charge, which he served from Novem- 
ber, 1 877, to February, 1883. Served as pastor of the 
First Reformed Church, Milton, 1 883-1 889. Pastor 
of St. John's Reformed Church, Phcenixville, since 
November, 1889. 



Post Office 

Address 
of Pastors 


Slonaker, Pa. 
Kimberton, Pa. 
Slonaker, Pa. 
Kimberton, Pa. 
Anselma, Pa. 
Linfield, Pa. 
Anselma, Pa. 
Pottstown, Pa. 
Phoenixville, Pa. 
Spring City, Pa. 






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Churches. 

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Brownback's ...... 

East Vincent 

St. Peter's (Warwick) . . 
St. Peter's (Pikeland) . . 

St. Matthew's 

St. Vincent 

St. Paul's 

Shenkel's 

St. John's, Phoenixville . . 
First Reformed Church, Spr 




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Henry Hilt 
I. Calvin F 
Henry Hilt 
I. Calvin F 
J. Lewis Fl 
J. A. Mertz 
J. Lewis Fl 
W. H. Stut 
F. C. Yost 
Calvin Den 


Total . . 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS « 




028 310 264 6 



